Abstract: Spent filter cartridge is one of the main sources of radioactive solid wastes in nuclear power plants. In order to reduce the amount of final wastes, a sorting process for spent filter cartridges based on their surface dose rate level is essential. The spent filter cartridges of less than 2 mSv/h surface dose rate can be dried, compacted, and solidified with grouting. The spent filter cartridges of 2 mSv/h to 50 mSv/h surface dose rate need a temporary storage decay before commencing the above process. When its surface dose rate is higher than 50 mSv/h, a spent filter cartridge must be solidified directly with grouting. With the sorting-treatment method, the amount of the final waste is reduced by 21.3 m³ according to the design value and by 8 m³ according to the practical value. Radioactive waste minimization is achieved, and the cost for waste disposal is reduced to generate considerable economic and environmental benefits for nuclear power plants.

Key words: filter, sorting-treatment, temporary storage decay, minimization management