Natural analogues and long-term safety
Different geological elements and conditions that are either similar in some way to the final disposal site or are exposed to similar levels of stress are used in natural analogue studies. This method allows for longer geological periods of time and the diversity of geological processes to be taken into account in assessments.
The observations from a natural analogue study can be used to verify the results of short-term laboratory testing, for example. In international research projects managed by the GTK, information has been gathered, for example, on uranium migration in bedrock, matters related to the properties of bentonite and copper as well as on the effects of the ice ages on bedrock and groundwater.
The aim of the studies is to produce geological background information for the design of final disposal concepts and to establish the safety of disposal sites. The studies also produce new baseline information and articles on the Earth’s crust and its dynamics with a longer observation period.
Service content
- Planning and implementation of surveys
- Project coordination
- Publishing and reporting
Your benefits
- You will be provided with scientific research data that can be used in the design of final disposal concepts and to establish the safety of disposal sites.
- You will be provided with visualisations and other material that can be used to determine the state of bedrock and groundwater conditions, as well as the longevity of the different components of the final disposal site.
