Deep geological repository

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Deep Geological Repository (DGR) is a type of radioactive waste management facility that is designed to safely store and isolate radioactive waste deep within the earth. The concept of a deep geological repository is based on a multi-barrier system, which includes the natural barrier provided by the host rock and the engineered barriers designed to contain the waste.

Overview[edit | edit source]

A deep geological repository is typically located several hundred meters below the earth's surface in a stable geological formation. The choice of location is critical and is based on a number of factors including the geological stability of the area, the absence of valuable resources that might attract future human intrusion, and the presence of a suitable host rock.

The radioactive waste to be stored in a deep geological repository is typically packaged in a robust waste form such as glass or ceramic, which is then placed in a corrosion-resistant container. The container is then surrounded by an engineered barrier system, which may include materials such as bentonite clay or concrete, designed to further isolate the waste from the surrounding environment.

Safety and Monitoring[edit | edit source]

The safety of a deep geological repository is ensured through a combination of passive and active safety measures. Passive safety measures are those that do not require human intervention, such as the natural barrier provided by the host rock and the engineered barriers. Active safety measures include ongoing monitoring of the repository to detect any potential leaks or other issues.

Public Acceptance and Ethical Considerations[edit | edit source]

The concept of a deep geological repository has been met with both support and opposition from the public. Supporters argue that it provides a long-term solution to the problem of radioactive waste management, while opponents raise concerns about the potential for leaks and the ethical implications of leaving a legacy of radioactive waste for future generations.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

Stylised atom with three Bohr model orbits and stylised nucleus.svg
   This article is a nuclear physics or atomic physics–related stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!
WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates, categories Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD