Properties of dynamically compacted wipp salt

Dynamic compaction of mine-run salt is being investigated for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP), where compacted salt is being considered for repository sealing applications. One large-scale and two intermediate-scale dynamic-compaction demonstrations were conducted. Initial fractional densities of the compacted salt range from 0.85 to 0.90, and permeabilities range from approximately 10 -12 m 2 to 10 -15 m 2 . Dynamically-compacted specimens were further consolidated in the laboratory by application of hydrostatic pressure. Permeability as a function of density was determined, and consolidation microprocesses were studied. Experimental results, in conjunction with modeling results (Callahan et al., 1996), indicate that the compacted salt will function as a viable seal material.