Fully-funded PhD programme in the geomicrobiology of radwaste disposal: MICROBIAL PROCESSES WITHIN BENTONITE BARRIER MATERIALS Many of the disposal concepts being considered by Radioactive Waste Management Limited (RWM) and other overseas organisations include the use of a compacted bentonite buffer or a bentonite-rich backfill, e.g. for the disposal of High Level Waste (HLW), Spent Fuel (SF), highly enriched uranium (HEU) and plutonium (Pu) (Wilson et al., 2011). Advantages associated with the use of compacted bentonite include an extremely low permeability, high swelling pressure to ensure good contact between the bentonite buffer and the host rock and canister, smectite surface sites for radionuclide adsorption and pH buffering and very small pore sizes to minimise microbial and colloid transportation. However, if a disposal concept that uses bentonite is eventually selected, a thorough understanding of the processes that will occur in the bentonite under in situ conditions will be needed to support the design of the geological disposal facility, and the development of a safety case for it. Linking to a portfolio of current projects, the aim of this new RWM-funded PhD project is to generate a molecular-scale understanding of the interactions between subsurface microorganisms and bentonite clay materials, and identify the impact of radiation on microbial activity and barrier performance. The student working on this cross-disciplinary project will gain training in microbiology, molecular biology, geochemistry, mineralogy and radiation chemistry and will have access to world-class facilities in the Williamson Research Centre for Molecular Environmental Science, the Research Centre for Geological Disposal, the Henry Mosely X-ray Imaging Centre (for porosity measurements) at the University of Manchester and the Dalton Cumbrian Facility (including a new Co-gamma source and a new ion-irradiator system). Close interactions with the British Geological Survey (BGS) will bring in additional expertise in clay barrier performance at a range of operating pressures. In addition, synchrotron techniques will be used where appropriate via existing collaborations with the Diamond Synchrotron. The student will also gain additional industrial focus from working in conjunction with the contractors on any related RWM projects. The student will work towards a final PhD thesis that will comprise 3-5 manuscripts formatted for publication in top journals in the field. For further information contact Prof Jon Lloyd, School of Earth, Atmospheric and Environmental Sciences: [email protected].
Posted on: Sun, 16 Nov 2014 20:40:57 +0000
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