Transformation of Bentonite Engineered Barriers System in Model Conditions

Abstract— Bentonite clays are widely used in various industries, including in the disposal of radioactive waste, as components of engineered safety barriers. This paper highlights the results of experiments on the transformation of bentonites under the influence of model solutions of pore waters of a crystalline massif, as well as on interaction with other components of barriers (steel and concrete). The conducted experimental and analytical work has made it possible to identify trends in bentonite transformations and features of transformational changes in the structure of smectites during contact interactions with materials of engineered safety barriers (steel and concrete). The results can be used to substantiate the long-term safety of deep geological disposal of radioactive waste at the Yeniseisky site, Krasnoyarsk region.