A systematic approach for surface exploration of sites – analysis of international exploration programs

Abstract. The site selection procedure for a high-level radioactive waste repository in Germany is based on the Repository Site Selection Act (StandAG, 2017), which comprises three phases. In phase 2 Federal Company Radioactive Waste Disposal (BGE) will conduct surface exploration. Based exploratory findings, further developed preliminary safety analyses, common requirements and criteria, potential socioeconomic analyses be applied feeding into proposed sites underground Commissioned by BGE, Institute Geosciences Natural Resources (BGR) contributes to this with projects GeoMePS ZuBeMErk, collate assess geoscientific geophysical methods programs Their goal develop recommendations exploration of siting regions. For purpose, BGR has systematic approach that includes (1) deducing targets, (2) compilation database structure, (3) analysis case studies national international disposal. Exploration targets are criteria as defined StandAG. identified (Kneuker et al., 2020) together large number were integrated linked within “GeM-DB”. All evaluated according their suitability applicability (a) host rocks (crystalline rock, claystone, rock salt) (b) previously targets. step reviews disposal exploring crystalline salt. Here, focus nondestructive minimally invasive techniques, such airborne ground-based or investigations drill holes cores. aims identify gaps method catalogue GeM-DB infer directives during 2. An example Swedish process, especially investigation program. There, are, e.g. basis discipline-specific descriptive models, design assessments (SKB, 2001). program along other countries considering rocks, Finland Canada, show ground, could adapted regions Germany. assessment evaluation selected salt claystone currently progress. entire ZuBeMErk Germany, regarding lithological, structural, mechanical, hydrogeological characterization different formations.