Architecture and management of a geological repository - Andra

5 – Repository ModulesFigure 5.1.24Mobile formwork for tunnel5.1.6 Closing the cellSealing of the B cells is very similar to sealing of the connecting drifts, which is described in moredetail in section 7.6. Special arrangements must however be made to protect the personnel fromirradiation when removing the cell head equipment. This section briefly describes the design principleof the B cells closure, paying particular attention to the aspects specific to these cells [61].5.1.6.1 Brief description of cell closureAs illustrated in Figure 5.1.25, the cell closure structure comprises the following, from upstream todownstream:- a radiological protection shield consisting of concrete blocks,- cell head filler which constitutes the mechanical support for the core of swelling clay,- a core of swelling clay, which is the essential component in ensuring the tightness of the seal,- grooves filled with swelling clay associated with the core,- a concrete retaining plug, which could itself subsequently sit on the connecting drift backfill.DOSSIER 2005 ARGILE -ARCHITECTURE AND MANAGEMENT OF A GEOLOGICAL DISPOSAL SYSTEM187/495