SELFRAC: Experiments and conclusions on fracturing, self-healing and self-sealing processes in clays

Wim Bastiaens, Frédéric Bernier, Xiang Ling Li, Jan Verstricht

    Research outputpeer-review

    Abstract

    In assessing the performance of a deep HLW repository, the evolution of the excavated damaged zone with time is a key issue. In the framework of SELFRAC fracturing, self-sealing and self-healing processes of Opalinus and Boom clay were studied in laboratory and in situ experiments. Definitions for the terms excavation damaged zone (EDZ), excavation disturbed zone (EdZ), sealing and healing are presented. It is shown that sealing and partial healing occur and the consequences of the results for performance assessment of HLW disposal in argillaceous rocks are discussed. The results of several in situ experiments and observations at the HADES underground research facility are detailed.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)600-615
    JournalPhysics and Chemistry of the Earth
    Volume32
    Issue number8-14
    DOIs
    StatePublished - Feb 2007
    EventClays in Natural & Engineered Barriers for Radioactive Waste Confinement - ANDRA, Tours
    Duration: 14 Mar 200518 Mar 2005

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