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Permeability Changes in Crystalline Rocks Due to Temperature: Effects of Mineral Assemblage

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  26 February 2011

C. A. Morrow ,
D. E. Moore  and
J. D. Byerlee
C. A. Morrow
Affiliation:
U.S. Geological Survey, 345 Middlefield Road, MS/977, Menlo Park, CA 94025
D. E. Moore
Affiliation:
U.S. Geological Survey, 345 Middlefield Road, MS/977, Menlo Park, CA 94025
J. D. Byerlee
Affiliation:
U.S. Geological Survey, 345 Middlefield Road, MS/977, Menlo Park, CA 94025
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Abstract

The change in permeability with time of granite, quartzite, anorthosite and gabbro was measured while these rocks were subjected to a temperature gradient. The highest temperature (at the heat source) was fixed at 250°C, while low temperatures ranged from 60 to 111°C, depending on rock type. Permeability reductions of up to two orders of magnitude were observed, with the greatest reactions occurring in the quartzite. These changes are thought to be caused by dissolution of minerals at high temperatures, and redeposition of the dissolved material at lower temperatures. Quartz appears to be an important mineral in this self-sealing process. If very low permeability is desired around a nuclear waste repository in crystalline rocks, then a quartz-rich rock may be the most appropriate host.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 44: Symposium N – Scientific Basis for Nuclear Waste Management VIII , 1984 , 467
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 1985

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References

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