Noncontact Displacement Measurement of Nuclear Waste Canisters in a Geological Disposal by Using an Electromagnetic-Wave Approach

Abstract

<jats:title>Abstract</jats:title> <jats:p>The aim of this work is to show a preliminary investigation of possible non-contact techniques for displacement measurement of radioactive waste in a geological disposal. Since a nuclear waste repository can be considered as a harsh environment, the possibility to study alternative methods for measurement, for example not using cables or buses for detecting relevant data, should be considered as a priority. A straightforward approach could be the substitution of cables with wireless sensors. But if cables cannot be used and the use of wireless techniques is required, new sensors must assure a reliable transmission without affecting the engineered barriers performance and the reliable use of energy supply for the measuring equipment over long periods. This work shows the results of a study of feasibility on using an electromagnetic approach for the contactless displacement measurement of a canister immersed and suspended in bentonite, a material with a high degree of water retention.</jats:p>