Scientists at the DOE national laboratories conduct research supporting the safe disposal of high-level radioactive waste that has been produced from nuclear power generation (and weapons production).  EGD researchers apply knowledge of complex processes in Earth’s subsurface that are triggered by perturbations from the construction of repositories, placing of engineered barriers, and disposal of waste deep underground to be stored–ideally for thousands to millions of years. 

EGD scientists lead research and technology development to enable long-term waste disposal in host-rock environments, such as argillite, salt rock, and crystalline rock, and alternative repository designs. We focus on developing the necessary experimental and computational capabilities to evaluate the safety and efficacy of disposing of spent fuel and waste.

Additionally, our experts study the suitability of different materials for the engineered barrier systems placed around canisters of buried, high-level nuclear waste.