Numerical Simulation Study of Near-Field Temperature Estimation at Nuclear Fuel Waste Disposal Site

The theme of this project is to explore the nuclear waste (spent nuclear fuel, SPF) final disposal or potential geothermal energy excavation site. Selecting and monitoring geological disposal site in stable geological formations for long term management of SPF is currently the strategy used in Taiwan. From scientific perspective and previous studies suggested that granite formations should be the first priority site for the waste disposal treatment in Taiwan. The proposed basic study involve numerical simulation for underground temperature estimation which affected by geological and boundary conditions. Compare with analytical solutions is needed to ensure the feasibility of developed numerical simulation scheme. Based on the available data and research results, the geological characteristics of potential disposal site and its rock types can be used as part of input model, temperature measurements can be also used for modeling. The results will be compared and evaluated through numerical simulation. Furthermore, the project will explores its potential applications for factors affecting temperature distributions beneath nuclear power plan, nuclear waste disposal or geothermal exploration sites. The scenario considering factors affecting underground temperature distribution are mainly focus on the concerns associated with existing large-scale geological with fault structures and/or even for fractured fault zone. The influence on physical parameters such as porosity, rock density, heat transfer coefficient, permeability and lithology change subject to small scale changes on cleavage, schistosity, foliation etc. will be systematically studies. Temperature or geothermal simulation will be performed based on the observable temperature-depth changes to measure or estimate temperature gradients. Through the comparison between the numerical solution and the analytical solution, the relationship between the simplified analytical solution and the numerical solution on the actual geological and various boundary conditions will be understood in a progressive and systematic manner. Emphasis on the integrate approach between basic research and development with its potential application will be enforced.