Design basis for buffer components

This report aims to cover all sets of conditions, needs, and requirements to be taken into account in the design of the bentonite buffer as an integral part of the Engineered Barrier System in the KBS-3V repository concept. This Buffer Design Basis covers specifications for buffer design, the role of buffer, sitespecific data concerning the buffer, requirements and results from previous design, for example fixed parts of the system, which shall be taken into account in the buffer design, in the interfaces of the buffer with other barriers (backfill, rock and canister), in manufacturing, and in the buffer emplacement in the deposition holes. An important starting point for the Buffer Design Basis is the regulatory framework and the design requirements related to long-term safety. The Buffer Design Basis also takes into account the evolving conditions and expected loadings on the buffer in the repository after emplacement to ensure the appropriate long-term performance of the buffer and thus long-term safety. The Buffer Design Basis points out the areas of research needed for further development before selecting the most optimal design, too.