The technical note briefly summarises the proposed designs and functions of the buffer and backfill, and examines SKB’s progress in manufacturing, installing and testing its proposed solutions.
In brief, the review suggests that there are some procedural and practical engineering aspects (e.g., quality assurance procedures, backfilling rates) and several physical processes to do with the buffer and backfill materials on which further research and development will be needed – more detailed review of these areas is suggested. SSM should also consider more detailed review of whether the properties and behaviour of the buffer and backfill are properly represented in the safety assessment.