What is defined as radioactive material that no longer has a particular use?

Radioactive waste is defined as material that contains radioactive substances, which no longer have any practical application or use. This designation typically includes items that have been used in various applications, such as medical treatments, research, or nuclear power generation, and are no longer considered valuable or viable for future use.

As these materials are no longer required, they must be managed and disposed of safely to protect both human health and the environment from potential radiation exposure. The characterization of material as radioactive waste also entails adherence to regulatory guidelines and procedures for its treatment, storage, and disposal to mitigate the risks of radiation.

While other terms like radioisotope, spent fuel, and contaminated material relate to specific contexts within radiation safety, they do not carry the same broader definition. A radioisotope refers to a specific isotope of an element that is radioactive. Spent fuel refers specifically to nuclear fuel that has been used in a reactor and is still highly radioactive and potentially useful under certain circumstances. Contaminated material describes items that have become unintentionally mixed with radioactive substances but may still have a use or purpose depending on decontamination and safety assessments. Thus, radioactive waste is the most accurate term for material that no longer serves any purpose.