Numerical and Experimental Study of the Praclay Seal Test in URL, Mol

Guangjing Chen, Claude Gatabin, Xiang Ling Li

    Research outputpeer-review

    Abstract

    In the frame of in-situ PRACLAY Heater experiment to be performed in HADES URL in Mol, an annular seal composed of compacted bentonite MX 80 will be installed to study the feasibility of a horizontal gallery seal (PRACLAY seal test). Scoping calculation based on finite element code was performed to investigate the THM behaviour of the seal, based on which, decisions are made on the initial dry density of the bentonite blocks, the initial technological void in the seal, the duration and pressure of water injection through the filters. It is also found that unlocking the steel rings, which are pre-installed for the sake of security of the gallery, is necessary when the bentonite is put in place to ensure more homogeneous swelling pressure build-up in the seal. Besides, several laboratory experiments have also been performed on the same kind of bentonite with the same properties to investigate the effect of the technology voids on the swelling pressure build-up.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publicationImpact of thermo-hydro-mechanical chemical (THMC) processes on the safety of underground radioactive waste repositories. Proceedings of the European Commission TIMODAZ-THERESA International Conference, Luxembourg, 29 September – 1 October 2009
    Place of PublicationBrussels, Belgium
    Pages367-372
    StatePublished - Dec 2012
    EventTIMODAZ-THERESA International Conference - European Commission, Luxembourg
    Duration: 29 Sep 20091 Oct 2009

    Publication series

    NameEUR report
    NumberEUR 25527 EN

    Conference

    ConferenceTIMODAZ-THERESA International Conference
    Country/TerritoryLuxembourg
    CityLuxembourg
    Period2009-09-292009-10-01

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