Using geologic conditions and multiattribute decision analysis to determine the relative favorability of selected areas for siting a high-level radioactive waste repository

Abstract

DISCLAIMER This report presents a method for determining the relative favorability of geologically defined units for high-level radioactive waste isolation. The method was applied to crystalline rock areas and subareas in the northeastern United States for illustrative purposes only. No conclusions should be drawn as to the absolute suitability of any of the subareas for development of a repository for such wastes. Extant geologic information was simply used to demonstrate how seismotectonic screening and multiattribute decision analysis can help identify the areas and subareas within a particular region having the most favorable attributes for repository development relative to other areas and subareas in that region. Final determinations of relative favorability would require consideration of nongeologic information as well as more detailed geologic data.