This paper assesses a potential risk for the Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant (MNPP) in Armenia based on a complex geological analysis of tectonic stresses around blocks of the region where the MNPP is located.
This region of the Lesser Caucasus is characterized by high
volcanic activity, strong stresses, constant buildup of stresses and its
release through high magnitudes earthquakes, hing along the edges of active,
highly seismic tectonic blocks. The active tectonic fault of compression type
is located below and in the vicinity of the place, where the power station is
allocated. The seismic risks were significantly understated when the power
station was constructed. The murderous and destructive Spitak earthquake with
over 25 thousand death tolls confirmed this fact. The second murderous
earthquake in south-west Turkiye and Syria in 2023 h along the same transform
fault, which continued to NW traces in South Caucasus to Metsamor MNPP
location. Both earthquakes are located along the same transform fault zones
going from NE Mediterranean to South Caucasus. Analysis of the intensity of the
earthquakes in this area, their focal mechanisms and risks of movements along
active tectonic faults is given in the paper. With reference to numerous papers
by Armenian, Russian and European researchers regarding seismic hazards and
risks around the Nuclear Power Plant, the conclusion about the soonest shutdown
and conservation of Metsamor Nuclear Power Plant has been made.
Author (s) Details
Rauf Nadirov
SOCAR, Baku Higher Oil School, Azerbaijan.
Oktay Rzayev
SOCAR, Baku Higher Oil School, Azerbaijan.
Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/geserh/v1/1696
No comments:
Post a Comment