Impact of the compaction behavior of crushed salt on the thermo-hydro-mechanical response of a generic salt repository for heat-generating nuclear waste

Salt formations are a promising host rock for the disposal of heat-emitting nuclear waste due to their ability to heal fractures, high thermal conductivity, and near-zero permeability. This study investigates the concept of waste emplacement in salt formations by placing waste packages in drifts and backfilling them with crushed salt. The aim is to minimize fracturing and restore the initial properties of the host rock.