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Scrutiny of geological disposal

The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) is currently undertaking research on the disposal of radioactive waste in a geological repository. We periodically examine and report on the NDA’s research work.

Technical Review Programme

We publish summaries of the work we've carried out to review aspects of NDA's Radioactive Waste Managment Directorate's (RWMD) programme to develop and implement a geological disposal facility.

Gas generation and migration

Our report scrutinising the NDA's research and development work on gas generation and migration from a geological disposal facility.

Our report concludes that the NDA has identified the majority of processes likely to generate gas and many of the issues that may affect long term safety. We recommend that the NDA should start to identify areas for further research relating to gas generation and movement, to help in the selection of a suitable repository site. We would like to see more research on different geological environments to build confidence in the associated calculations.

Durability of waste containers

Our review of Nirex's work relating to container longevity and waste form stability.

Geophysical Surveying

Our review of NDA’s proposals for the use of geophysical surveying techniques in characterising any potential site(s) for a geological disposal facility highlighted that:

  • geophysical surveys should be planned to make best use of them in understanding any potential site(s);
  • data management systems and interpretation software should be developed and tested in advance of characterisation commencing; and
  • research and development into geophysical surveying should be monitored and incorporated where relevant.

We will continue to review RWMD’s generic site investigation programmes and any subsequent proposals developed for a candidate site or sites.

Reports from our Evidence team

Our Evidence team published a report on the technical issues associated with deep radioactive waste repositories in different geological environments.

Our Evidence team published a report about understanding controls on the performance of engineered barrier systems in repositories for high-level radioactive waste and spent fuel.

Other reports and further information

We've produced a number of review reports relating to the work of Nirex and the NDA (to which former Nirex staff have now transferred). If you would like information, or copies of these reports contact us.