Containment of High-Level Radioactive and Hazardous Solid Wastes with Clay Barriers

This book addresses the challenges of safely disposing of spent nuclear fuel, focusing on clay-based barriers for containment. It explores long-term performance, assessment methodologies, and is a key resource for industry professionals.

Containment of High-Level Radioactive and Hazardous Solid Wastes with Clay Barriers addresses a critical challenge in the management of nuclear fuel: the safe disposal of spent nuclear fuel. Despite advancements in technology, a reliable method for the long-term disposal of high-level radioactive waste remains elusive. The book highlights ongoing efforts that primarily utilize clay-based buffers and barriers, designed to securely isolate spent fuel canisters deep underground in specially constructed tunnels and caverns.

The authors delve into the various containment methods currently under consideration, focusing on the roles that clay materials play in ensuring the safety and stability of these waste storage solutions. They provide an in-depth analysis of the processes and mechanisms that influence the long-term performance of clay-based barriers and backfills. This exploration is essential for understanding how these materials can effectively contain hazardous wastes over extended periods, minimizing the risk of environmental contamination.

Furthermore, the book outlines the methodologies employed to predict the performance of these clay materials, offering insights into the assessment procedures that guide the development of radioactive waste sites. It serves as a valuable resource for professionals, researchers, academics, and regulators involved in the field, equipping them with the knowledge necessary to address the complexities of radioactive waste management. Overall, this work contributes significantly to the ongoing discourse on safe disposal practices for high-level radioactive and hazardous solid wastes.