In Germany the concept of dry interim storage of spent fuel in dual purpose metal casks is implemented, currently for periods of up to 40 years. The casks being used have an approved transport package design in accordance with the international IAEA transport regulations as well. The storage of spent nuclear fuel and high-level waste in dual purpose casks (DPC) is related with the challenge of maintaining safety for transportation over several decades of storage.

Besides consideration of aging mechanisms by appropriate design, material selection and operational controls to assure technical reliability by aging management measures, an essential issue is the continuous control and update of the DPC safety case.

Not only the technical objects are subject of aging but also the safety demonstration basis is subject of “aging” due to possible changes of regulations, standards and scientific/technical knowledge.

To ensure a safe transport in future to a destination which is not known yet (because of not yet existing repository sites) periodical reviews of the Package Design Safety Report (PDSR), in connection with periodic renewals of package design approval certificates, have to be carried out.