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Management of Commercially Generated Radioactive Waste - U.S. ...

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Draft p. 3.1.3<br />

Issue<br />

217<br />

GEOLOGIC CONSIDERATIONS<br />

Several commenters felt the equilibrium fringe concept is not significant for long-<br />

term isolation because <strong>of</strong> the potential for disruption <strong>of</strong> containment. (113-EPA, 124)<br />

Response<br />

The equilibrium fringe concept has been expanded and is only defined qualitatively---it<br />

is not a fully developed concept at this point.<br />

Draft p. 3.1.4<br />

Issue<br />

One commenter felt the problems listed in the draft p. 3.1.4 are considered only from<br />

a cost standpoint. Reduction <strong>of</strong> effectiveness <strong>of</strong> the repository by fracturing rock is not<br />

discussed. (113-EPA)<br />

Response<br />

This paragraph is part <strong>of</strong> the Canister Spacing discussion under Generic Basis for<br />

Repository Design/<strong>Waste</strong> <strong>Management</strong> Costs and is thus cost oriented. The same paragraph<br />

states that the extent <strong>of</strong> induced rock fracturing around canisters needs further investiga-<br />

tion. Natural or existing fractures in the host rock are discussed in the same draft sec-<br />

tion with respect to rock support structures, strength, design, ground water movement, and<br />

excavation problems, as well as heat flow.<br />

Draft p. 3.1.4<br />

Issue<br />

One commenter recommended that the final Statement address the fact that most intense<br />

tectonic activity and virtually all volcanic activity for North America occur along global<br />

plate boundaries. (113-EPA)<br />

Response<br />

The text has been changed. During the site-selection process, crustal plate bound-<br />

aries, areas <strong>of</strong> known active faults and zones <strong>of</strong> recent earthquakes and volcanic activity<br />

would be avoided.

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