The role of Geotechnical Engineering for nuclear energy utilisation

摘要

An adequate consideration of the issues associated with nuclear energy utilisation requires the examination of the entire nuclear fuel cycle, from uranium mining through nuclear power generation to radioactive waste disposal. In this paper, an overview of the role played by Geotechnics in these areas of work is presented. Some general information on nuclear processes, radioactivity and nuclear waste is given first. The issues and approaches associated with the foundations of nuclear power plants and the remediation of uranium mining sites are then considered. Afterwards, the problem of radioactive waste disposal, the field of most intense and advanced activity at present, is reviewed. Geotechnical Engineering is especially involved with the option of deep geological disposal of high-level nuclear waste. The paper examines the interaction between Geotechnics and the conception, design and construction of an underground repository. It also describes the geotechnical contribution towards the performance assessment of the disposal facility as well as the ongoing geotechnical research in this area. Information on strategies for the disposal of medium and low nuclear waste is also presented.