The United States Department of Energy/United States Environmental Protection Agency Sludge Irradiation Program

Gamma radiation from cesium-137 has been shown to be effective in reducing pathogens in sewage sludge to levels where reuse of the material in public areas meets current regulatory criteria for protection of the public health. A 7,250-kilogram per day pilot plant is in operation and full-scale demonstration facilities are being developed. This paper discusses program research and engineering history related to sludge irradiation, as well as current activities and future plans.