Abstract:

The paper presents the current state of knowledge concerning the numerical simulation of the thermo-mechanical phenomena in the near field of a conceptual repository for disposal of heat-generating waste in deep rock-salt formations. Special attention has been given to the consolidation behavior of backfill material due to its relevance as an engineering barrier in the underground disposal. To perform this task, finite element codes containing a set of time- and temperature-dependent constitutive models have been improved. The results of the numerical simulation show that under expected repository conditions the volume closure and the compaction of the backfill are mainly influenced by the temperature increase and the pre-excavation lithostatic stress at the waste emplacement level.

Keywords:
radioactive waste, rock salt, Reservoir Characterization, vicinity, repository concept, Upstream Oil & Gas, Simulation, compaction, strain rate tensor, constitutive model
Subjects:
Reservoir Characterization, Environment, Information Management and Systems, Waste management
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2013. American Rock Mechanics Association
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