Selection of Reference Thermodynamic Data for Modelling of Deep Geological Repositories: Present and Future of the NEA Thermochemical Database Project

The OECD Nuclear Energy Agency (NEA) works as a forum for sharing and analyzing information and experience among member countries, fostering international co-operation in the nuclear field, helping member countries to pool and maintain their technical expertise and human infrastructure, and supporting nuclear activities by providing member countries with nuclear policy analyses as stated in its Strategic Plan 2011–2016. Under this umbrella, the Thermochemical Database project emerged with the aim of defining an internationally recognized set of recommended thermochemical data to support the geochemical modelling of high-level radioactive waste disposal. Such data are selected on the basis of a well-defined review procedure which is coordinated by the NEA and are freely available. These efforts have resulted in the publication of thirteen major reviews containing selected values for around 1500 species, out of which more than 700 aqueous species, 650 solids and 150 gases. Additionally, six publications are currently under preparation. The key aspects of the Project, its accomplishments and future actions are outlined herein.