Numerical parametric sensitivity study of thermal and mechanical properties for a high level nuclear waste repository

The Nuclear Regulatory Corrmission (NRC) is the responsible regulatory agency as per the Nuclear Waste Policy Act of 1982 to license a high level nuclear waste repository that will be constructed by the Department of Energy (DOE). In support of NRC”s review of the testing program ∣n the technical areas of rock mechanics and design, a numerical parametric study to investigate the sensitivity of mechanical and thermal properties was performed. The regulatory basis for this study is that a Geologic Repository must meet the design criteria stated in 10 CFR 60, the retrieval option must be maintained (10 CFR 60.111), and the extent of the disturbed zone must be calculated (10 CFR 60.113). Data from the proposed repository at Yucca Mountain or NNWSI was chosen for this study. The analysis utilized a thermomechanical discontinuum code. The results of this work will be used by the NRC staff in the review of the NNWSI Site Characterization Plan. This study will aid the NRC in the review of DOE test plans with respect to mechanical and thermomechanical parameters that should be investigated during site characterization. This study should also provide insight about the effects of variations of mechanical and thermomechanical parameters on the performance of the underground openings. The view., expressed in this paper represents the view of the author only and is not to be considered the position of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.