An Overview of Analysis and Regulatory Needs to Determine Seismic Loads for Design of a High-Level Waste Geologic Repository

Stepp, J. Carl; ,

An Overview of Analysis and Regulatory Needs to Determine Seismic Loads for Design of a High-Level Waste Geologic Repository

by J. Carl Stepp, Electric Power Research Inst, Palo Alto, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Dynamic Analysis and Design Considerations for High-Level Nuclear Waste Repositories

Abstract:

Determination of seismic loads and faulting hazard for siting, design and performance evaluation of a high-level nuclear waste repository facility can be accomplished with state-of-knowledge geotechnical and engineering methods and procedures. A key need is to establish performance goals for the various facility components based on their significance to safety. With performance goals established, quantitative assessments of ground shaking and faulting hazard that incorporate uncertainty in earthquake processes and data can be made. For assessing the long term performance of underground facilities quantitative determination of faulting hazard in a format suitable for input to a long term repository performance assessment are required. Stable and predictable regulatory standards and guidelines that can be implemented using state-of-the-art geotechnical practice, methods and procedures are required. In developing the regulatory standards and guidelines caution must be exercised to avoid reliance for regulatory decision-making on concepts and terminology that is unfamiliar and not previously used in practice.

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