Comparison Between GeologicalDisposal of Carbon Dioxide and RadioactiveWaste in China

摘要

The large amount of carbon dioxide (CO_2) emissions and the fast development of nuclear power plants in China pose challenges for the safe disposal of CO_2 and high-level waste (HLW). Significant progress has been made in both areas. The disposal of CO_2 has focused on making commercial use of CO_2. Several enhanced oil recovery and enhanced coalbed methane projects have been implemented in China. Seventy disposal sites in 24 major sedimentary basins have been identified for CO_2 disposal. The amount of spent fuel will reach about 82,000 t of heavy metal when all of the planned 58 reactors on the Chinese mainland reach the end of their lifetime. A target to build a national HLW repository in around 2050 has been set. CO_2 disposal and radioactive waste disposal have much in common, but there are also many differences, including disposal principles and capacity, host media, potential sites, site characterization and cost. The site with the most potential for HLW disposal in China is the Beishan granite site in northwestern Gansu Province, while most of the potential sites for CO_2 disposal are in the eastern and south-western basins of China. For HLW, only one repository is planned, but for CO_2 disposal, many sites are needed. The disposal of CO, and radioactive waste are facing similar scientific and technical challenges, including site selection, monitoring of disposal site, prediction of how disposal systems will work, safety assessments, and social and economic issues. To meet these challenges, the scientists working in these fields need to intensify the exchange of information and increase cooperation.