Current Plans to Characterize the Design Basis Ground Motion at the Yucca Mountain, Nevada Site

by W. B. Simecka, U.S. Dep of Energy, Las Vegas, United States,
T. A. Grant, U.S. Dep of Energy, Las Vegas, United States,
M. D. Voegele, U.S. Dep of Energy, Las Vegas, United States,
K. M. Cline, U.S. Dep of Energy, Las Vegas, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

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

Abstract:

A site at Yucca Mountain Nevada is currently being studied to assess its suitability as a potential host site for the nation's first commercial high level waste repository. The DOE has proposed a new methodology for determining design-basis ground motions that uses both deterministic and probabilistic methods. The role of the deterministic approach is primary. It provides the level of detail needed by design engineers in the characterization of ground motions. The probabilistic approach provides a logical structured procedure for integrating the range of possible earthquakes that contribute to the ground motion hazard at the site. In addition, probabilistic methods will be used as needed to provide input for the assessment of long-term repository performance. This paper discusses the local tectonic environment, potential seismic sources and their associated displacements and ground motions. It also discusses the approach to assessing the design basis earthquake for the surface and underground facilities, as well as selected examples of the use of this type of information in design activities.

Subject Headings: Ground motion | Radioactive wastes | Probability | Waste sites | Structural design | Site investigation | Recycling | Nevada | United States

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