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Eastern Altantic fracture zones as potential disposal sites for radioactive waste

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Environmental Geology

Abstract

Disposal of radioactive waste in the sea floor of fracture zones associated with the flanks of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge may be a satisfactory alternative to land disposal. Effective physiographic, sedimentary, chemical, and oceanographic barriers exist in these aseismic deep canyons, especially in the eastern Atlantic. In addition, the major producers of radioactive wastes are likely to be near the Atlantic Ocean. If such a disposal strategy is adopted, intensive study of the sedimentologic and oceanographic properties of oceanic fracture zones will be necessary.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Geology and Geophysics, Yale University, 06520, New Haven, Connecticut

    Karl K. Turekian

  2. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Atlantic Oceanographic and Meteorological Laboratories, 33149, Miami, Florida

    Peter A. Rona

Authors
  1. Karl K. Turekian
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  2. Peter A. Rona
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Turekian, K.K., Rona, P.A. Eastern Altantic fracture zones as potential disposal sites for radioactive waste. Geo 2, 59–62 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02430666

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