Workshop: Best-practice for laboratory testing low-permeable materials

Abstract

Abstract. The testing of low-permeable materials is challenging. Yet, for the disposal of radioactive waste, it is essential, too. This workshop is aimed at gathering ambitious scientists to discuss and to collaborate on their experiences in the laboratory testing of low-permeable materials. The focus here is on the methods: What method is best for what kind of low-permeable host rock (salt/clay) and for what kind of technical barrier material (bentonite/crushed salt)? How can measurement errors be correctly determined? What are the crucial “bottlenecks” in the device setups? How can high porous but low permeable samples best be pre-saturated? How can coupled flow and cumbersome gas traps in the tests be dealt with? What is the best-practice analysis of permeability from pressure decay recordings? Is there a hope of defining a standardized procedure for low-permeability testing? These points will be reflected in the light of radioactive waste disposal and in the need to find a best-practice solution when it comes to eventual evaluation and comparison of potential underground disposal sites.