ML20038C421

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Expresses Concern Re Embrittlement of Nuclear Power Reactor Steel Shells.Determination of Measures to Ensure Public Safety Urged
ML20038C421
Person / Time
Site: Maine Yankee
Issue date: 10/05/1981
From: Brennan J
MAINE, STATE OF
To: Palladino N
NRC COMMISSION (OCM)
Shared Package
ML20038C420 List:
References
NUDOCS 8112110013
Download: ML20038C421 (1)


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o.sann 9-ys October 5, 1981 JOSEPH E BRENNAN GovE#MOR Nunzio J. Palladino, Chairman Nuclear Regulatory Commission Matomic Building 1717 H S treet, N.W.

Washington, D. C. 20555

Dear Chairman Palladino:

I have learned that the steel shells of certain nuclear power reactors may be becoming brittle in such a way as to make their operation unsafe at some time in the relatively near future.

It appears that this is a matter of real concern for which there is no ready remedy. Clearly, there is a pressing need for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to determine the measures that must be taken to ensure public safety.

3 As the Kemeny Commission report stated, the principal I

responsibility of the NRC must be the maintenance of safety in I

and around currently operating reactors.

While I an aware that the NRC has a heavy regulatory burden relating to the issuance of licenses for new reactors, I urge you to devote fully adequate attention and effort to the problems of those already in operation where the containment vessels may be becoming excessively brittle.

Sincerely, EF.i E. BRENNAN overnor JEB/gwd cc: Gordon L. Weil

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