Sellafield Limited (SL) are currently undertaking a programme of work centred on the Thermal Treatment of Higher Activity Waste (HAW). This programme of work is split into three principal workstreams, these being:
• Tranche 1: Plutonium Contaminated Material (PCM)
• Tranche 2: Pumpable Intermediate Level Waste (ILW)
• Tranche 3: Mixed Beta Gamma Waste (MBGW)

Tranche 1 is investigating Twin Electrode Plasma Furnace, to the existing technology. Tranche 1 uses a lost crucible methodology where the crucible becomes the product.
Tranche 2 is investigating the potential application of continuously operated Joule Heated Ceramic Melter (JHCM). Tranche 2 feedstocks have different physical and chemical characteristics to the anticipated feedstocks for the existing technology.

The HAWTT research programmes are in their infancy. Initial findings and future research ambitions will be presented