Synopsis of Analyses (1981-87) Performed to Assess the Stability of Underground Excavations at Yucca Mountain: Yucca Mountain Project

摘要

This paper reviews 14 analyses that were performed by 10 different investigators during the course of 7 yr to assess the preclosure (up to 100 yr) stability of underground excavations for a potential nuclear waste repository located at Yucca Mountain, Nevada. The analyses were primarily based on thermomechanical models of the conceptual design of shafts and drifts. The material properties, codes, and design configurations used in the analyses varied because of the acquisition of additional data and refinement in codes and design over that period of time. However, all the analyses indicate that shafts and drifts can be constructed and will remain stable with minimum ground support through decommissioning of the repository. This information supports the feasibility of constructing a safe exploratory shaft facility and the expectation that it will remain stable should repository construction and waste emplacement follow. 63 refs., 2 tabs.