Basis for In-situ Geomechanical Testing at the Yucca Mountain Site

摘要

The report presents an analysis of the in-situ geomechanical testing needs for the Yucca Mountain site, and discusses a possible testing program which addresses these needs. The testing needs are derived from 10CFR60 regulations, as well as simple thermomechanical canister- and room-scale studies. The testing approach suggested here is based heavily on demonstration and monitoring of full-scale rock mass response. This is accomplished through instrumented excavation of exploration drifting throughout the repository horizon, as well as thermal loading of full-scale repository excavations. Confidence in predictive models is developed through an 'iterative' approach of model comparison to rock mass response. The program approach is opposed to one in which 'point' testing is conducted a priori at determined locations in an attempt to statistically specify given rock properties.