A life cycle assessment of the ISIS-II Neutron and Muon Source

TL;DR

This paper discusses the initial stages of a life cycle assessment for the ISIS-II neutron and muon source, aiming to evaluate and minimize its environmental impacts throughout its lifecycle.

Contribution

It introduces a comprehensive LCA framework for ISIS-II, focusing on environmental sustainability considerations from design through decommissioning.

Findings

Preliminary environmental impact insights obtained

Identification of key impact areas in construction and operation

Strategies for impact mitigation proposed

Abstract

The ISIS-II Neutron and Muon source is the proposed next generation of, and successor to, the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source based at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory in the United Kingdom. Anticipated to start construction in 2031, the ISIS-II project presents a unique opportunity to incorporate environmental sustainability practices from its inception. A Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) will examine the environmental impacts associated with each of the ISIS-II design options across the stages of the ISIS-II lifecycle, encompassing construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning. This proactive approach will assess all potential areas of environmental impact and seek to identify strategies for minimizing and mitigating negative impacts, wherever feasible. This paper will provide insights into the process and first results of the LCA of the entirety of the ISIS-II project.