Technical Know-How of Site Descriptive Modeling for Site Characterization

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hiromitsu Saegusa ◽  
Tadafumi Niizato ◽  
Ken-ichi Yasue ◽  
Hironori Onoe ◽  
Ryosuke Doke
Keyword(s):  
Site Characterization ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Initial Surface ◽  
Geological Environment ◽  
Implementation Phase ◽  
Know How ◽  
Long Duration ◽  
High Level ◽  
Underground Research Laboratory ◽  
Technical Basis

The site descriptive model covering the current status of characteristics of geological environment and the site evolution model for estimation of the long-term evolution of site conditions are used to integrate multi-disciplinary investigation results. It is important to evaluate uncertainties in the models, to specify issues regarding the uncertainties and to prioritize the resolution of specified issues, for the planning of site characterization. There is a large quantity of technical know-how in the modeling process. It is important to record the technical know-how with transparency and traceability, since site characterization projects generally need long duration. The transfer of the technical know-how accumulated in the research and development (R&D) phase to the implementation phase is equally important. The aim of this study is to support the planning of initial surface-based site characterizations based on the technical know-how accumulated from the underground research laboratory projects. These projects are broad scientific studies of the deep geological environment and provide a technical basis for the geological disposal of high-level radioactive wastes. In this study, a comprehensive task flow from acquisition of existing data to planning of field investigations through the modeling has been specified. Specific task flow and decision-making process to perform the tasks have been specified.

Technical Know-How for Modeling of a Geological Environment: Part 2—Geological Modeling

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Toshiyuki Matsuoka ◽  
Kenji Amano ◽  
Hideaki Osawa ◽  
Takeshi Semba
Keyword(s):  
Research And Development ◽  
Research Laboratory ◽  
Site Characterization ◽  
Initial Surface ◽  
Geological Environment ◽  
Know How ◽  
Environment Model ◽  
High Level ◽  
Underground Research Laboratory ◽  
The Impact

It is important for site characterization projects to manage the decision-making process with transparency and traceability and to transfer the technical know-how developed and accumulated during the research and development to the implementing phase as well as to future generations. The modeling of a geological environment supports efforts to clarify the degree of understanding regarding that geological environment, including uncertainty. Evaluation of the impact of uncertainties in a geological environment model is important to identify and prioritize key issues for further investigations. Therefore, a plan for site characterization should be made based on the results of the modeling. The aim of this study is to support the planning of initial surface-based site characterization based on the technical know-how accumulated from the Mizunami Underground Research Laboratory Project and the Horonobe Underground Research Laboratory Project. These projects are broad scientific studies of the deep geological environment that are a basis for research and development for the geological disposal of high-level radioactive wastes. In this study, the work-flow followed in developing the geological model, one of the geological environment models, and the related technical know-how acquired from literature data have been summarized.

Technical Know-How for Modeling of Geological Environment: Part 1—Overview and Groundwater Flow Modeling

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hiromitsu Saegusa ◽  
Shinji Takeuchi ◽  
Keisuke Maekawa ◽  
Hideaki Osawa ◽  
Takeshi Semba
Keyword(s):  
Decision Making ◽  
Research And Development ◽  
Groundwater Flow ◽  
Research Laboratory ◽  
Site Characterization ◽  
Decision Making Process ◽  
Geological Environment ◽  
Flow Modeling ◽  
Know How ◽  
Underground Research Laboratory

It is important for site characterization projects to manage the decision-making process with transparency and traceability and to transfer the technical know-how accumulated during the research and development to the implementing phase and to future generations. The modeling for a geological environment is to be used to synthesize investigation results. Evaluation of the impact of uncertainties in the model is important to identify and prioritize key issues for further investigations. Therefore, a plan for site characterization should be made based on the results of the modeling. The aim of this study is to support for the planning of initial surface-based site characterization based on the technical know-how accumulated from the Mizunami Underground Research Laboratory Project and the Horonobe Underground Research Laboratory Project. These projects are broad scientific studies of the deep geological environment that are a basis for research and development for the geological disposal of high-level radioactive wastes. In this study, the work-flow of the groundwater flow modeling, which is one of the geological environment models, and is to be used for setting the area for the geological environment modeling and for groundwater flow characterization, and the related decision-making process using literature data have been summarized.

The JNC Generic URL Research Program - Providing a Knowledge Base to Support both Implementer and Regulator in Japan

2006 ◽  
Vol 932 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hiroyuki Umeki ◽  
Kazuhiko Shimizu ◽  
Toshihiro Seo ◽  
Akira Kitamura ◽  
Hirohisa Ishikawa
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Base ◽  
Safety Assessment ◽  
Atomic Energy Commission ◽  
Phase 1 ◽  
Site Characterization ◽  
Crystalline Rock ◽  
Know How ◽  
Safety Regulations ◽  
Site Characteristics ◽  
Underground Research Laboratory

ABSTRACTIn accordance with the R&D framework specified by the Atomic Energy Commission of Japan in 2000 for the implementing phase of HLW disposal, the Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Institute (JNC) continues to be responsible for R&D activities aimed at enhancing the reliability of disposal technologies and safety assessment methodologies and associated databases. JNC has thus been actively promoting technical R&D with a view to contributing to both the implementation of disposal and the formulation of safety regulations.One of JNC's key roles is to establish and demonstrate site characterization methodologies based on investigations in two purpose-built generic URL (underground research laboratory) projects: one at Mizunami in crystalline rock and the other at Horonobe in sedimentary rock.Through the surface-based investigations in the Mizunami and Horonobe projects (phase 1), integration of work from different disciplines into a “geosynthesis” has been illustrated and is planned to be developed further in the underground facilities at these sites (phases 2 and 3). These projects also serve for developing and testing the tools and methodologies required for site characterization. Further know-how will be gained through participation in foreign underground laboratory projects, transfer of experience from these projects to Japan and tailoring it to Japanese conditions and requirements.This experience represents an important knowledge base, which is obviously important for the implementer but is also needed by the regulator, in order to assess how key site characteristics are derived and what uncertainties are associated with this process.

Technical Know-How of Selection Process for the Horonobe Underground Research Laboratory Area and Site

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Takanori Kunimaru ◽  
Ryuji Takeuchi ◽  
Tatsuji Matsuzaki
Keyword(s):  
Selection Process ◽  
Regional Scale ◽  
Gas Content ◽  
Geological Environment ◽  
Know How ◽  
Investigation Area ◽  
Geophysical Surveys ◽  
Rock Mechanical Properties ◽  
Underground Research Laboratory ◽  
A Site

This study demonstrates the selection process for the Horonobe URL based on surveys of existing information and geophysical surveys on a regional scale. In addition, preliminary requirements on the geological environment, safety (during construction of the underground facility) and social and environmental constraints were taken into consideration. The technical know-how utilised through the experiences for the site selection is described here. The proposed Horonobe URL site required the existence of argillaceous sedimentary formations and associated groundwater. Further fundamental requirements were appropriate rock mechanical properties and low gas content in the host rock to meet safe underground construction and operation regulations. This led to a stepwise narrowing down from several potential URL areas located completely within the Horonobe District to one candidate URL area and, finally, to a specific URL site. In the URL investigation area (ca. 3 km × 3 km) the main surface-based investigations were conducted as the first step to choosing the actual URL site. This was selected based on establishing fundamental factors related to the geological environment, safety and societal issues. This paper provides an outline of the process utilised in selecting the URL site by taking into consideration technical and social requirements. Thus stepwise approach and experience in selecting the URL site will be applicable when NUMO needs to select a site through literature surveys, and preliminary and detailed investigations in the future.

Mizunami Underground Research Laboratory in Japan: Pre-Excavation Site Characterization and Influence on Design Concepts

2001 ◽  
Author(s):  
Glen F. McCrank ◽  
Kenji Amano ◽  
Kaoru Koide ◽  
Hiroya Matsui ◽  
Shinichiro Mikake ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Research Laboratory ◽  
Conceptual Models ◽  
Site Characterization ◽  
Geological Environment ◽  
Central Japan ◽  
Design Concepts ◽  
Experimental Programme ◽  
Nuclear Cycle ◽  
Underground Research Laboratory ◽  
Excavation Site

Abstract The Mizunami Underground Research Laboratory (MIU) will be constructed by the Japan Nuclear Cycle Development Institute (JNC) in central Japan. The project is planned in three overlapping phases consisting of I) Surface-based Investigation II) Construction and III) Operations Phases. This paper addresses the methods used to investigate the geological environment, the integration of the site knowledge into conceptual models and the application of the knowledge in designing the facility; some aspects of the future experimental programme are discussed.

Current Status of Phase II Investigations: Mizunami Underground Research Laboratory (MIU) Project

2009 ◽  
Author(s):  
Tadahiko Tsuruta ◽  
Masahiro Uchida ◽  
Katsuhiro Hama ◽  
Hiroya Matsui ◽  
Shinji Takeuchi ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Phase I ◽  
Phase Ii ◽  
Research Laboratory ◽  
Total Duration ◽  
Geological Mapping ◽  
Phase Iii ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Geological Environment ◽  
Deep Underground ◽  
Underground Research Laboratory

The Mizunami Underground Research Laboratory (MIU) Project, a comprehensive research project investigating the deep underground environment in crystalline rock, is being conducted by the Japan Atomic Energy Agency at Mizunami City, Central Japan. The MIU Project is being carried out in three overlapping phases: Surface-based Investigation (Phase I), Construction (Phase II), and Operation (Phase III), with a total duration of 20 years. The overall project goals of the MIU Project from Phase I through to Phase III are: 1) to establish techniques for investigation, analysis and assessment of the deep geological environment, and 2) to develop a range of engineering techniques for deep underground application. Phase I was completed in March 2004, and Phase II investigations associated with the construction of the underground facilities are currently underway. Phase II investigation goals are to evaluate the geological, hydrogeological, hydrogeochemical and rock mechanical models developed in Phase I and to assess changes in the deep geological environment caused by the construction of underground facilities. Geological mapping, borehole investigations for geological, hydrogeological, hydrochemical and rock mechanical studies are being carried out in shafts and research galleries in order to evaluate the models. Long-term monitoring of changes in groundwater chemistry and pressure associated with the construction of the underground facilities continue in and around the MIU site, using existing boreholes and monitoring systems. This report summarizes the current status of the MIU Project on results of the Phase II investigations to date.

Low Alkaline Cement Used in the Construction of a Gallery in the Horonobe Underground Research Laboratory

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Masashi Nakayama ◽  
Haruo Sato ◽  
Yutaka Sugita ◽  
Seiji Ito ◽  
Masashi Minamide ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Fly Ash ◽  
Research Laboratory ◽  
Concrete Lining ◽  
Energy Agency ◽  
Tunnel Support ◽  
Long Term Stability ◽  
Alkaline Conditions ◽  
High Level ◽  
Underground Research Laboratory

In Japan, any high level radioactive waste (HLW) repository is to be constructed at over 300 m depth below surface. Tunnel support is used for safety during the construction and operation, and shotcrete and concrete lining are used as the tunnel support. Concrete is a composite material comprised of aggregate, cement and various admixtures. Low alkaline cement has been developed for the long term stability of the barrier systems whose performance could be negatively affected by highly alkaline conditions arising due to cement used in a repository. Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) has developed a low alkaline cement, named as HFSC (Highly Fly-ash Contained Silicafume Cement), containing over 60 wt% of silica-fume (SF) and fly-ash (FA). HFSC was used experimentally as the shotcrete material in construction of part of the 140m deep gallery in the Horonobe Underground Research Laboratory (URL). The objective of this experiment was to assess the performance of HFSC shotcrete in terms of mechanics, workability, durability, and so on. HFSC used in this experiment is composed of 40 wt% OPC (Ordinary Portland Cement), 20 wt% SF, and 40 wt% FA. This composition was determined based on mechanical testing of various mixes of the above components. Because of the low OPC content, the strength of HFSC tends to be lower than that of OPC. The total length of tunnel using HFSC shotcrete is about 73 m and about 500 m3 of HFSC was used. The workability of HFSC shotcrete was confirmed in this experimental construction.

Countering Threats

2014 ◽  
Vol 4 (2) ◽  
pp. 35-45
Author(s):  
Margarita Jaitner
Keyword(s):  
Social Media ◽  
Law Enforcement ◽  
Ad Hoc ◽  
Physical Violence ◽  
Deep Understanding ◽  
Current Status ◽  
Mobile Web ◽  
Use Of Social Media ◽  
Legal Frameworks ◽  
High Level

The increased adoption of social media has presented security and law enforcement authorities with significant new challenges. For example, the Swedish Security Service (SÄPO) asserts that a large proportion of radicalization takes place in open fora online. Still, approaches to contain social media-driven challenges to security, particularly in democratic societies, remain little explored. Nonetheless, this type of knowledge may become relevant in European countries in the near future: Amongst other factors, the challenging economic situation has resulted in increased public discontent leading to emergence or manifestation of groups that seek to challenge the existing policies by almost any means. Use of social media multiplies the number of vectors that need law enforcement attention. First, a high level of social media adaption allows groups to reach and attract a wider audience. Unlike previously, many groups today consist of a large but very loosely connected network. This lack of cohesion can present a challenge for authorities, to identify emerging key actors and assess threat levels. Second, a high level of mobile web penetration has allowed groups to ad-hoc organize, amend plans and redirect physical activities. Third, the tool social media is as not exclusive to potential perpetrators of unlawful action, but is as well available to law enforcement authorities. Yet, efficient utilization of social media requires a deep understanding of its nature and a well-crafted, comprehensive approach. Acknowledging the broad functionality of social media, as well as its current status in the society, this article describes a model process for security authorities and law enforcement work with social media in general and security services work in particular. The process is cyclic and largely modular. It provides a set of goals and tasks for each stage of a potential event, rather than fixed activities. This allows authorities to adapt the process to individual legal frameworks and organization setups. The approach behind the process is holistic where social media is regarded as both source and destination of information. Ultimately, the process aims at efficiently and effectively mitigating the risk of virtual and physical violence.

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