Rosatom has begun to eliminate accumulated chemical waste at the Crystal plant in the city of Tash-Kumyr in Kyrgyzstan. Work to stabilize hazardous containers began in the cold season to minimize environmental risks.
The State Corporation has taken control of technological containers with residues of polycrystalline silicon and related chemicals. All operations are carried out exclusively at low temperatures - this reduces the reactivity of compounds. After opening the containers, the gas mixture is discharged without air access, and then the tanks are sealed under a nitrogen cushion. This approach blocks emissions into the atmosphere and eliminates contact of hazardous components with the environment.
To increase reliability, a double circuit of emergency protection and independent environmental monitoring has been organized at the site. By the end of the year, Rosatom plans to completely eliminate the risk of leaks, stabilize the condition of the containers and create safe conditions for further handling of hazardous substances.
The Crystal plant, launched in 1989 for the production of polycrystalline silicon, has been declared bankrupt since 2010. The accumulated chemical production waste has made the site an object of increased environmental hazard. The current stage of work is the first step towards full rehabilitation of the territory.