Advanced training course, Geomicrobiology in radioactive waste disposal, October 8-11th, 2018, Mol, Belgium

The objective of this advanced training course is to provide state-of-the-art knowledge and insight into the geomicrobiology phenomena related to the geological disposal of radioactive waste. The focus will be on performance assessment of the geological disposal environment and the engineered barrier systems for high-level and long-lived intermediate level waste using the knowledge of geomicrobiology processes.

Several case studies from different European Member States will be highlighted. Lectures on advanced analyzing techniques will complemented by technical visits to the SCK•CEN research laboratories in microbiology and the underground laboratory for waste disposal research.

Geological disposal of radioactive waste represents a challenge where social and technical aspects blend with regard to the design, implementation and post-construction management of the installation. For this reason, a dedicated panel discussion will be focusing on the impact of the inclusion of microbiology on expert conceptualisation and public perception of geological disposal.

Flyer advanced training course in geomicrobiology_MIND_v1

Advanced training course, Geomicrobiology in radioactive waste disposal, October 8-11th, 2018, Mol, Belgium

Topics

Day 1 Introduction to the MIND project

Geomicrobiology in radioactive waste disposal

Microbiological interactions with organic components in low- and intermediate level long-lived waste

Day 2 Bentonite, cement and metals in high-level waste

Microbial activity in the engineered barrier

Day 3 Modelling tools & bioinformatics

Impact assessment

Remaining issues in geomicrobiology and how to deal with them

Day 4 Visit to the underground laboratory HADES

Panel discussion: The impact of the inclusion of microbiology on expert conceptualization and public perception of geological disposal of radioactive waste

Case studies of in situ experiments: outcomes and lessons learned