Observation of collapse behavior of bentonite during swelling pressure test using X-ray CT measurement

Takayama, Yusuke  ; Kikuchi, Hirohito*

Numerous swelling pressure tests have been conducted to understand the swelling properties of bentonite which is planned to be used as a buffer material in repositories for the geological disposal of radioactive waste. In this study, in order to clarify the cause of the decrease in swelling pressure during the swell-in pressure test period, the change in wet density distribution inside the specimen during the swelling pressure test was observed by X-ray CT measurement. It was supposed that this phenomenon was caused by the collapse inside the specimen. Furthermore, in order to confirm that collapse is generated by water absorption, the swelling deformation test was carried out under various load conditions. As a result, it was confirmed that collapse occurs even under the load conditions that are equal to or slightly smaller than the swelling pressure. These test data are expected to be used for validation of coupled analysis codes for evaluating the mechanical behavior of disposal facilities during re-saturation period.