Architectural design of a mobile irradiation unit for the treatment of industrial effluents in Brazil

Abstract

The Nuclear and Energy Research Institute (IPEN-CNEN/SP) decided to develop and build a mobile beam irradiation unit for the treatment of industrial effluents. The mobile unit will have as one of its main advantages the possibility of treating effluents in the place where the source is located, eliminating costs and bureaucratic problems associated with the transportation of waste, besides publicizing the technology in several places in Brazil. To implement the project, IPEN-CNEN/SP has been consolidating partnerships with national and international companies. The resources for the development of the unit have been supplied by the Brazilian Innovation Agency (FINEP) and International Atomic Energy Agency, financing the IAEA TC Project BRA1035 – Mobile electron beam accelerator to treat and recycle industrial effluents. The Institute hired a specialized company (Truckvan Industry) for the unit design and development. Several meetings have been realized with the company and the IAEA experts aiming the compatibility of the design and the exchange of information necessary for the project development. Regarding the mobile lab, several layout options have been developed to better meet the needs of each device and its users. The layout has been discussed with the objective of facilitating the maintenance of the equipment; the well-being and ergonomics of operators; optimization of spacing and also to make compatible the need for the presence of equipment and space for operators. Thus, several studies have been prepared to allow the discussion between the areas involved and to optimize the project, as well as the visualization of the spaces available. In this paper is presented the approach adopted for the architectural design of a mobile irradiation unit in Brazil.