Request for Information regarding leaching experiments using AGR graphite samples

RWM has commissioned work to measure and further understand the release of carbon-14 from irradiated AGR graphite under a range of relevant conditions. This will involve measurement of total carbon-14 release into the gas and aqueous phases, together with characterisation of the carbon speciation. This work has an experimental programme that closely follows the methods and test durations previously studied for Magnox graphite to provide comparable results. Due to nature of the work, only a small number of graphite samples from two AGR stations are being investigated in initial leaching experiments. However, to understand the variabilities in the carbon-14 release behaviour from graphite across the AGR fleet, RWM has expressed a vision to make comparative measurements on samples from all AGR reactors. Although an extensive programme of long-term leaching may not be feasible, shorter-term experiments, lasting 3-6 months, may be suitable for this purpose along with a wider characterisation programme to understand the inventory within AGR graphite. RWM wishes to find out from the market if there are suppliers who can meet the specific requirements of this work.