Geological Disposal of Radioactive Wastes and Natural Analogues

As many countries explore options for disposing of highly radioactive solid wastes, the need for secure, long-term solutions becomes apparent. This text examines the process of placing these wastes deep underground in engineered, purpose-built repositories. While surface and shallow repositories for less radioactive wastes are already in operation, the nuclear industry faces the significant challenge of proving long-term safety. This book addresses the necessity of demonstrating that a repository can contain waste for extended periods. The goal is to ensure that any future releases pose no significant risk to human health or the environment. By looking at the physics and utilizing natural analogues, this work provides insight into building confidence regarding the long-term safety and stability of geological disposal methods. It is a necessary resource for those studying the engineering and environmental aspects of nuclear waste management.