Analysis of Functional Criteria for Buffer Material in a High-level Radioactrive Waste Repository

This study is intended to analyze the requirements of a buffer material that is one of the major components of the engineered barriers in a high-level radioactive waste repository. The characteristics of potential materials for the buffer in the repository were analyzed and a candidate material was selected. And, based on the current knowledge and the information from various sources, the requirements of a buffer material were evaluated. Finally its quantitative functional criteria on the generic viewpoint has been recommended to be supplied as a guideline for the development of the reference disposal concept and the related buffer material in Korea. The criteria are composed of seven major items, such as hydraulic conductivity, retardation capacity, swelling potential and swelling pressure, thermal conductivity, longevity, organic matter content, and mechanical properties.