Building Disposal Cells in the Lab to Understand Erosion Protection

Unlike the 1990s research, the current flume studies are testing alternative cover designs that include rock-soil mixtures for the top layer, as opposed to plain riprap. Alternative evapotranspiration (ET) covers that incorporate rock-soil mixtures are being proposed and LM doesn't have data to show how rock-soil mixtures withstand erosion, what the ideal rock-soil ratio is, how big the rocks should be, and the roles soil properties play.

Through flume experiments, scientists measure critical thresholds such as water velocity and shear stress required to erode rock and soil layers. Once erosion occurs, repair methods are tested for erosion resistance. The insights from these controlled tests allow LM, AS&T, and NRC to develop criteria for new disposal cell designs, exploring the possibility of retrofitting existing rock-armored cells with soil, and creating procedures for repairing disposal cells if they experience erosion.