The Long-term Performance of Engineered Barrier Systems (PEBS) is an ambitious project spearheaded by the Bundesanstalt für Geowissenschaften und Rohstoffe, designed to enhance our understanding of the sealing and barrier performance of clay-based engineered barrier systems over extended periods. As part of the 7th EURATOM project, PEBS focuses on the thermo-hydro-mechanical and -chemical (THM-T) evolution of these systems, employing a comprehensive approach that combines experimental studies, modeling, and safety function assessments.

The project encompasses a wide array of laboratory and in-situ experiments, including notable endeavors like the FEBEX full-scale mock-up and the half-scale heater experiment at Mont Terri. With a consortium comprising 15 European organizations and the Beijing Research Institute for Uranium Geology, PEBS aims to disseminate findings to the global scientific community, ensuring wide-ranging knowledge transfer through training and outreach.

Ultimately, the PEBS project's goal is to fortify safety assessments crucial for long-term performance evaluation, thereby contributing significant insights to nuclear waste management and geological safety.