Radioactive waste

$Petrographical, microchemical and fluid inclusion studies of the most recent mineralization in hydrogeologically active fractures provide an insight into the long-term evolution of repository groundwater systems in response to Quaternary climate changes. This example is from the deep groundwater system at Dounreay, Caithness$ Petrographical, microchemical and fluid inclusion studies of the most recent mineralisation in hydrogeologically active fractures provide an insight into the long-term evolution of repository groundwater systems in response to Quaternary climate changes. This example is from the deep groundwater system at Dounreay, Caithness
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The team carries out multidisciplinary research on a number of topics important to the future safe geological disposal of radioactive waste including

state-of-the-art studies on the movement of fluids (gas, water, solutes) through mudrocks
coupled deformation behaviour in particular the engineered damaged zone around repository openings
the role of biofilms and particle transport (colloids/nanoparticles) in the movement of radioactivity through the geological environment
understanding past and predicting future groundwater flow paths in response to drivers such as climate change, uplift and tectonics
impact of climate change, uplift and tectonics on the physical, hydrogeological and geochemical stability of the repository environment
application of natural analogue studies to process understanding and the long-term evolution of geological repository systems

We undertake work on behalf of a number of national and international waste management organisations and have provided geological data and interpretations concerning the safe storage and disposal of radioactive waste for more than 40 years.

Contact

Contact Dr Richard Shaw for more information.