Objective
The aim is to identify the coupled thermo-hydro-mechanical (THM) processes in both the bentonite buffer and the host rock clay formation after a medium-term heating phase at 100-C under saturated conditions.
A heating tube with a diameter of 10cm was installed in a 7 m deep borehole with a diameter of 30 cm. The gap between the heater and the clay host rock was backfilled with compacted bentonite blocks. A constant temperature of 100-C will be maintained at the surface of the heater in contact with the artificially saturated bentonite buffer for about 18 months. The THM response in both the buffer and the rock will be monitored in-situ.
During this time-period modelling and supporting laboratory work will be performed. Thereafter the buffer and part of the surrounding host rock will be excavated for characterisation at the laboratory.
Additional modelling will be done to confirm the predictions of the first modelling period.
Programme(s)
Topic(s)
Call for proposal
Data not availableFunding Scheme
CSC - Cost-sharing contractsCoordinator
30655 Hannover
Germany