Precision Pumps for Environmental Geomechanics Research

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Geologic sequestration refers to the emplacement of hazardous materials such as nuclear waste, toxic contaminants and fluidized greenhouse gases, so that they do not pose a threat to human health and the environment. Sequestration in stable rock formations is the preferred mode to achieve a measure of permanency for the lifetime of the stored hazardous waste. Geologic storage settings can evolve with time due to long-term influences of processes such as glaciation, earthquakes, and other geotectonic actions and the interaction with stored substances, which can damage the rock. Damage to the host rock can alter its mechanical and fluid transport characteristics; in CO2 sequestration, wormholes can develop due to dissolution of the carbonate fraction. Groundwater is the main mode of transport of hazardous wastes and contaminants from disposal sites to the biosphere; any alteration of permeability is therefore central to assessing the safety and reliability of geologic disposal. The precision pumps requested are a vital component of our research facilities, which enables the researchers to obtain accurate estimates of permeability during and after changes in the mechanical and chemical environment.