39 Critical aspects of mining technology in excavation of a nuclear waste repository in salt

Disposal of nuclear waste in salt requires large openings at a depth of 650 to 950 meters and introduces unprecedented demands on current underground mining technology. Consequently, transfer of current subsurface technology to the salt repository project needs some modification. The technology must assure public safety and the long-term stability of the geologic media. In this paper selected critical aspects of mining technology are identified and briefly examined, and their potential applications to a salt repository during its development, operation, and decommissioning are highlighted. The items examined include repository design basis, repository design, excavation techniques and equipment, smooth wall blasting, possible modes of instability in salt, gas outbursts, ground control, backfilling materials and pneumatic backfilling techniques, and sealing. Additional problem areas in the application of mining technology to salt repositories are defined, and some problem areas requiring further investigation are outlined for research and development.

• INTRODUCTION

• REPOSITORY SEALING

• CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

• REFERENCES

• ACKNOWLEDGMENT