Study of the Area 3 Sandpile, Southeastern Yucca Flat, Nevada Test Site. Part 1. Geology

摘要

In Yucca Flat, Nevada Test Site, a discrete part of Area 3 has been defined where the alluvium is largely tuff-rich sand extending to a depth of 1500 ft. Material properties (bulk density, grain density, grain size, velocity, water content, and carbon dioxide content) of the alluvial material are nearly uniform. Informally termed the Area 3 Sandpile, knowledge of its extent and nature is based on geologic and geophysical data from 42 drill sites. In order to accumulate 1500 feet of alluvium, the present alluviation pattern has existed for a considerable time and also requires a stable structural setting. This accumulation may have taken 5 m.y. or more. (ERA citation 08:047536)