Hydraulic mechanical chemical evolution of bentonite for barriers optimisation (ANCHORS)

Objectives

The objective of this WP is to increase the optimisation potential of bentonite barrier systems: buffer, backfill and seals, and the Safety Case resilience 1) by qualifying the Hydro Mechanical (HM) behaviour of various kind of bentonite types and mixtures through laboratory experimental programme focused on heterogeneity, chemical effects and friction at different scales and 2) by improving the numerical tools that are necessary to carry out performance assessment of bentonite barriers in a Thermo Hydro Mechanical Chemical (Gas) (THMC(G)) repository environment.