Study on Long-term Stability of Geological Environment

The Tono Geoscience Center has been conducting the "Study on the Long-Term Stability of the Geological Environment" as a fundamental research effort for the geological disposal of high-level radioactive waste (HLW). Geological disposal involves placing HLW deep underground in stable rock formations to isolate it from the human environment, ensuring that future generations are not affected by HLW.

Japan, located in a plate convergence zone, is geologically active, with frequent crustal movements and volcanic activity. Therefore, for safe geological disposal, it is essential to assess whether the underground environment can remain stable and unaffected by volcanic activity and faulting over a long period of time. This requires the development of advanced investigation and evaluation technologies.

To provide scientific knowledge and investigation and evaluation technologies for the geological disposal project and national safety regulations, the "Study on the Long-Term Stability of the Geological Environment" focuses on the following objectives:

• Development and Systemization of Investigation Techniques
  Advancing technology to investigate past and present geological events. ⇒ Learn more
• Development of Models for Long-Term Estimation and Effective Assessment
  Creating methods to estimate and assess geological changes caused by future events. ⇒ Learn more
• Development of Dating Techniques
  Improving dating techniques, including radiometric dating and high-resolution identification of key layers, using state-of-the-art equipment. ⇒ Learn more