Testing is underway on alternatives to lead shielding and alternative filters used to remove radioactive material from liquid waste streams. Water has replaced freon-113 for density measurement of uranium components. Use of carbon tetrachloride for cleaning operations in plutonium manufacturing areas was reduced 25 percent through better operating methods. There is a corresponding reduction in methylene chloride-based paint stripper. Lead shielding is used in certain areas to reduce worker exposure to gamma radiation in plutonium areas.
Tests are underway to evaluate replacing lead shields with stainless steel.
Tests are underway to find substitute filters used to remove radioactive particles from various liquid waste streams. Initial test results of a kevlar fiber filter show promise in reducing the amount of transuranic filter waste by 100 drums per year. Using the kevlar filters can also reduce the volume of waste filter by 33 percent compared to the existing filter. No details of the scale of the tests were provided. The practices resulted in reduced production of waste chlorinated solvents, and use of oil-based paints.