Assessment of the Radiological Consequences of Disposal of Intermediate Level Wastes in Argillaceous Rock Formations

摘要

The aims are to review the available data on argillaceous rocks, to calculate the potential radiological consequences of disposal of intermediate level wastes in argillaceous rock formations, and to analyse the sensitivity of the results of the calculation to variations in the values of the major parameters. Two broad categories of wastes, of differing volume and radionuclide content, are considered. These wastes are assumed to be conditioned and packaged, prior to disposal in either a clay or shale formation. The radiological consequences of releases via ground-water are evaluated using appropriate mathematical models, and this is the only release mechanism considered. The results of the calculations and of the sensitivity analysis are used for three main purposes- the identification of priorities for the research required to evaluate this disposal option for intermediate level wastes, to derive interim guidance on performance objectives for conditioned waste forms and for waste packages, and to attempt to draw general conclusions about acceptable disposal depths and the relative suitability of clays and shales for disposal of intermediate level wastes. The assessment is a preliminary one, and the results do not provide an adequate basis for a decision on the acceptability of emplacing intermediate level wastes in argillaceous rock formations. (Atomindex citation 13:683869)