The first heating phase started in February 1997 and continued until year 2002. Following removal of 1 heater, a second phase runs from 2003. According to the reference concept, the temperature will not exceed 100 degrees at any time. The monitoring system comprises more than 600 sensors reading continuously relevant parameters, e.g. temperature, water content in the buffer, swelling pressure, etc.

Online visualisation system of the FEBEX test : The screen shot shows the position of the electrical heaters in the backfilled tunnel section. Click on the image to view a hi-resolution image (opens in a new window).

This cross section shows the location and output from various sensors in the backfilled tunnel section and the surrounding rock. Click on the image to view a hi-resolution image (opens in a new window).

Measured and predicted normal stresses. Section F1. Febex “In situ” test.