Limitations in determining redox chemistry in basalt groundwaters at the Hanford site

The oxidation-reduction (redox) chemistry of the basalt groundwater system will be an important factor governing both the design and performance of a high-level nuclear waste repository in basalt. Although the redox state of the basalt groundwater system is inherently difficult to measure, there are a number of types of measurements that provide valuable information on this subject. These measurements include concentrations of dissolved sulfide, ferrous iron, electrode redox potential, and groundwater reducing capacity. These measurements have been made on a limited basis in a number of different repository test horizons. Taken collectively, the results of these measurements suggest that both sulfide and ferrous iron play an important role in the establishment of the basalt groundwater redox condition. Thermodynamic calculations of redox potential (E/sub h/) based on these measurements are indicative of an E/sub h/ of -0.4 V. Additional measurements are proposed that will provide a more complete understanding of basalt groundwater redox conditions. The proposed measurements include a more in-depth analysis of redox active species as well as quantification of dissolved gas species such as oxygen and methane.