Bentonite as a Protective Dover for Buried Radioactive Waste

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Abstract
Wyoming bentonite clay prevented infiltration of rainwater into radioactive waste buried above the water table in a humid region. A lysimeter study showed that a 1-in.-thick bentonite layer was adequate and that drying and cracking of the bentonite during prolonged drought could be prevented with 2 ft of soil cover. A large subsurface bentonite structure built in the field demonstrated the feasibility of applying a continuous bentonite layer over extensive vertical and horizontal areas. The test was evaluated by D2O tracing of soil moisture both outside and under the bentonite structure. Structures must be maintained free of all plant growth because bentonite is easily penetrated by roots.

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