Geochemical influences on the design, construction and operation of a nuclear waste vault Original Research Article

The design, construction and operation of a vault for used nuclear fuel in crystalline rock may be influenced by a number of geochemical factors. During the period when a site is being selected, information is needed regarding the rock type, heterogeneities in its composition and the mineralogy of permeable zones, because these will cause variations in thermal conductivity, strength and radionuclide sorptive properties of the rock. These factors may affect decisions regarding depth of vault construction, tunnel dimensions and spacing of panels and waste containers. During site characterization, borehole drilling from the surface and subsequent hydraulic testing will introduce both chemical and microbiological contaminants that may further influence this decision.