Alternate conceptual model of ground water flow at Yucca Mountain

Attempts to predict the performance of a high-level nuclear waste repository in the United States have lead to the development of alternative conceptual models of the ground water flow field in which the repository will be located. This step has come about because of the large uncertainties involved in predicting the movement of water and radionuclides through an unsaturated fractured rock. Alternative concepts necessitates the use of simplifying assumptions. In this paper the authors examine an alternative conceptual model which utilizes more realistic assumptions of focused recharge in concert with a fractured matrix and non-equilibrium view of ground water flow