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RESEARCH PROGRAMME
 
 

The EIG EURIDICE is responsible for performing large-scale tests, technical demonstrations and experiments so as to assess the feasibility of a final disposal of vitrified radioactive waste in deep clay layers. This scientific programme is part of the Belgian Research and Development programme managed by ONDRAF/NIRAS.

The EIG EURIDICE's main lines of research are:

  • the technical demonstration of the process for constructing the underground disposal infrastructure using industrial methods: shafts and galleries for disposal, connections - Second Shaft/ Connection Gallery/ PRACLAY Crossing Test;
  • the study of the damaged area around the disposal area and any impact on the performance of the disposal system - SELFRAC;
  • the thermal impact of the waste on the host rock - PRACLAY Heater Test;
  • the technical construction demonstration and waste placement and the barriers constructed, as well as researching the interaction of these with the host rock - Pushing robot / OPHELIE / Super container / PRACLAY Annular Buffer - ESDRED/ PRACLAY Plug Test; 

The experiments managed by the EIG EURIDICE are realised in part on the surface in the demonstration hall and in part in-situ in the underground laboratory HADES.

  
The EIG EURIDICE benefits from the proximity of the laboratories of SCK•CEN for carrying out its analyses. The EIG EURIDICE subcontracts certain specific tests out to universities or external research centres. 

Experimental research is underpinned by fundamental research. The EIG EURIDICE has a calculation team that carries out computer simulations of disposal system components and experiments. Modelling is above all a tool for learning more about the processes that occur in the disposal system. It may also be used as a forecasting tool, in the short and long term, for the behaviour of the components in the disposal system. The EIG EURIDICE places particular importance on maintaining a close link between the experimental and modelling sections.

The EIG EURIDICE participates in the work group GTA, presided over by ONDRAF/NIRAS and entrusted with developing the disposal architecture. In this way the EIG EURIDICE feedback contributes to optimising the disposal architecture.

The EIG EURIDICE carried out research in cooperation with numerous international bodies. All countries are in fact faced with the same requirements as regards radioactive waste. The synergistic effects of international exchanges enable us to subject our research to critical analysis and comment, and share our experiments and pool our resources.