Summary of Geology for Two Potential Underground Test Sites in Basaltic Rocks, Nevada Test Site. Technical Letter: NTS-15.

摘要

The geologic map of the Paiute Ridge (Papoose Lake SW) 7 1/2-minute quadrangle shows an area of about 4 square miles on the east side of Yucca Flat that is underlain by basaltic rocks. These rocks are estimated to be as much as 1,000 feet in places and occur as a capping on a small mesa and as lopoliths, igneous masses that in cross section are saucer-shaped. This area was further studied to determine the geologic features of the basaltic rocks in order to evaluate the potential use of this area for underground test sites in media other than tuff, alluvium, and granite, particularly in media of high density. The results of this work are set forth in this report. There are two possible test sites in basaltic rock in the area. Site 1 (within Nevada State coordinates E 709,500 and 710,500 ft and N 854,000 and 856,000 ft) is suitable for a shallow test. Site 2 (bounded by Nevada State coordinates E 707,000 and E 712,000 ft and N 848,000 and N 853,000 ft) could be used for a deep confined test in basaltic rock.