Environmental studies data base development and data synthesis activities of the US Subseabed Disposal Program

The US Subseabed Disposal Program is assessing the scientific feasibility of subseabed emplacement of high-level nuclear wastes. Studies of disposal methods and of the barriers to radionuclide migration (canister, waste form and sediment) suggest that environmental information will be needed to assess the effects of accidental release of radionuclides in the deep sea. Biological, physical and geochemical data are being collected from field and laboratory studies as well as from literature searches. These data are being analysed using a multi-compartmental radionuclide transport model and appropriate physical oceanographic models. The data integrated into this framework will help answer two questions -what are the environmental effects of radionuclides which may be released in the deep sea, and what are the effects of such a release upon man. (author)