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Research is separated into individual experiments. The following categories are distinguished:

• Development of methodologies, for example performing and analysing experiments
• Characterisation of the Opalinus Clay, for example understanding the chemical and physical processes in the Opalinus Clay at the rock laboratory and determiningthe relevant properties
• Demonstration experiments. Tests on a 1:1 scale can be carried out over a long time period.

The experiments in the rock laboratory provide a significant body of knowledge about the feasibility and safety of deep geological disposal.

Argillaceous rock is suitable as a geological barrier for the long-term containment of radioactive waste. The three most important characteristics are:

• Retention of radionuclides on the clay mineral surfaces,
  
• Very low permeability (no transport of radionuclides with flowing water), and
  
• The ability to self-seal cracks and fissures by swelling.

No, this is not possible. The rock laboratory is exclusively for research purposes. There can be no question of disposing of radioactive waste here. This is part of the contractual arrangement with the Canton of Jura.