Sensitivity Analysis for Factor of the On-link Public Assessment Model in Radioactive Waste Overland Transportation

Ga Eun Oh, Min Woo Kwak, Dong Gyu Lee, Kwang Pyo Kim^*

Received 2024-08-08 ; Revised 2024-09-05 ; Approved 2024-09-23

Abstract

The increase in radioactive waste increased the demand for transportation to the disposal facility. Prior to transporting radioactive waste, confirming that the potential exposure is insignificant is crucial. Overland transportation risk assessment models were developed tailored to domestic characteristics. Dose assessment using this model requires selecting appropriate factors. However, users may struggle to derive appropriate values, leading to inaccuracies. Additionally, if assessment results show outliers, prioritizing factors for review can be challenging. Therefore, sensitivity analysis is necessary to prioritize factors for accurate assessment. In this study, sensitivity analysis was conducted on the on-link public risk assessment model factors for radioactive waste overland transportation. Initially, assessment models were analyzed by each detailed exposure scenario. Subsequently, uncertainty propagation-based sensitivity analysis methodology was applied. The default values for the assessment model factors were set, and sensitivity analysis was conducted based on road type for maximum individual and collective dose assessment models. For the maximum individual dose model, the distance to the same-direction vehicle was the most sensitive, whereas for the collective dose model, vehicle velocity was the most sensitive. The results of this study can be used as the basic data on radioactive waste transportation risk assessment in Korea in the future.

Key Words : Radioactive waste, Overland transportation, Sensitivity analysis, Assessment model factor, On-link public