Numerical modeling of colloid-facilitated radionuclide decay chain transport in a coupled fracture–matrix system

Abstract

A numerical model is developed to simulate the colloid-facilitated transport of radionuclides in a single fracture-host rock coupled system with planar geometry. Such a system may be encountered in case of leaching and transport of radionuclides from a high-level radioactive waste repository in deep geological formations. The presence of colloids in the system reduces the retardation effects on the radionuclide migration and can change the concentration distribution of radionuclides in the system significantly. The processes such as advection, dispersion, surface sorption, radioactive decay and diffusive loss to the host rock are considered for transport in the fracture, whereas dispersion, adsorption and radioactive decay are included for transport in the host rock. Since the radionuclides to be disposed into the high-level waste repository may include a decay chain of progeny, the performance assessment methodology must incorporate the ingrowth of progeny with time to carry out realistic estimates. The inclusion of decay chain buildup and transport is essential to avoid underestimation with respect to the environmental impact assessment for the repository. Hence, the numerical model based on implicit finite difference scheme is developed with the inclusion of decay chain transport. The model is verified by comparing with well-known analytical solutions. The application of the model is demonstrated by applying it to a five-member decay chain of 238U. With increase in the concentration of colloids, the concentrations of the radionuclides in the fracture water increase and also reach the steady state at an earlier time. The concentrations of radionuclides almost become steady throughout the distance of 200 m in the fracture as the colloid concentration reaches 5 kg m−3 or more. Sensitivity analysis is carried out with respect to various model parameters such as dispersion coefficient in fracture, dispersion coefficient in the porous host rock, porosity of the host rock and distribution coefficient of radionuclide with respect to the mobile colloids. The developed model can be a useful tool for the performance assessment of high-level radioactive waste repositories.