Colloid Formation and Migration (CFM) Aims

The proposed long term Colloid Formation and Migration (CFM) experiment aims to:

• examine colloid generation rates and mechanisms at the Engineered Barrier System (EBS) - host rock boundary under in situ conditions,
  
• evaluate the long-distance migration behaviour of EBS-derived colloids in a water-conducting feature in a repository relevant flow system (i.e. with a very low flow rate/water flux),
  
• study the long-term geochemical behaviour (mobility, mineralisation, colloid formation, etc) of radionuclides at the EBS-host rock boundary,
  
• examine reversibility of radionuclide uptake onto colloids,
  
• gain experience in long-term monitoring of radionuclide/colloid propagation near a repository,
  
• apply the results to improve repository performance assessments; optimise EBS design and contribute to the 'monitoring' debate