Expression of Interest - Commercial Extraction of Nickel from Radiologically Contaminated Nickel Ingots

The Department of Energy (DOE) is seeking industry input for the commercial extraction of nickel from radiologically contaminated nickel ingots stored at the Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant in Kentucky. The goal is to produce a high-purity nickel product that can be released for use in commerce. The DOE is looking for operationally mature technologies that can support the recovery and reuse of approximately 9,700 tons of nickel ingots. The information gathered from this Expression of Interest (EOI) will be used to determine the best approach for the extraction and reuse of the nickel. Key points to consider: • The nickel ingots are volumetrically contaminated with radiological contaminants, including uranium, technetium, and other actinides. • The DOE is seeking technologies that can produce a high-purity nickel product with the lowest residual contamination levels. • The proposed approach must meet release requirements and thresholds developed in accordance with DOE Order 458.1. • The DOE will evaluate the proposed approaches based on technical feasibility, economic feasibility, and environmental risks.