December 21, 2006
Uranium-Laden Big Rigs Flips
I think this is generally why they prefer to ship nuclear fuels by rail:
A fully loaded tractor-trailer carrying about 6,600 pounds of powdered uranium has overturned on part of Interstate 40 in Johnston County, authorities say.All eastbound lanes of I-40 are closed at exit 325 (N.C. Highway 242 to Benson). Traffic is being rerouted through Benson.
The accident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. when the vehicle overturned on the Interstate 95 northbound ramp to I-40 east.
Johnston County's emergency communications director says the threat level is low because the uranium is packed securely. The only threat is if the radioactive material breaks through the reinforced container it is in.
Let's hope that doesn't happen.
BTW... what color is "Carolina Green?"
I'd be astonished if the cask was damaged in any way that would risk compromise.
They're simply built too strong. Think about it, a "fully loaded tractor-trailer" is 80,000lbs. The truck itself may be up to 40k of that. The uranium is 6,600lbs. That leaves 33,400lbs (if my math is right) for the cask...
