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U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Scientific and Technical Information

Geotechnical aspects of site selection and characterization, Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, southeastern New Mexico, USA

Conference ·
OSTI ID:100858
 [1]
  1. Powers (D.W.), Anthony, TX (United States)
The WIPP project began in 1975 at the present site after another site was found unsuitable. Geological and hydrological studies have passed through several recognizable phases. During site selection, a suitable area for characterization was identified using screening criteria and detailed factors. These criteria and factors are probably sufficient to identify an acceptable site, but they may not all be necessary. Site characterization began in 1976. Site and Preliminary Design Validation (SPDV) programs provided underground access by shafts and mining. Characterization and SPDV validated site geology. Long-term processes affecting waste isolation began to be investigated during characterization. Some geological processes are believed not to occur at WIPP. Other processes are still being studied for performance assessment, an evaluation of the WIPP as a whole to isolate waste. The process of selecting, characterizing, and examining long-term processes for WIPP has been effective, though non-technical and technical concerns have delayed opening WIPP.
OSTI ID:
100858
Report Number(s):
CONF-930906--; ISBN 0-7918-0691-X
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English