Research at the Grimsel Test Site makes a significant contribution to ensuring that Switzerland will be able to construct a safe deep geological repository in the near future. The research laboratory provides ideal conditions for a variety of experiments.
What is being investigated at the Grimsel Test Site?
On a 1:1 scale with a future repository, scientists investigate how well radioactive substances can be retained in drifts and in the rock. One of a kind: the Grimsel Test Site is the only research laboratory worldwide where minuscule amounts of radioactive substances can be used to investigate the transport of these substances directly in the rock.
The Grimsel Test Site has its own website, where you can find specialised information on the experiments.
Open website
Your visit to the Grimsel Test Site
The Grimsel Test Site is located 450 metres beneath the surface of the Juchlistock, at an altitude of 1,730 metres above sea-level in the granite rock of the Aar Massif – and amidst magnificent mountain scenery. The research laboratory can be reached through the access tunnel of the Oberhasli AG hydropower plant (KWO). The laboratory itself is around one kilometre long.
- Due to the major construction site (replacement of the Spitallamm dam) at the hydropower plant operated by KWO, we are currently only able to accommodate a limited number of visitor groups in the research laboratory. From June to October, however, the Grimsel Test Site will offer a few open days, for which registration is required. If you have any questions or require information, please contact Andrea Wettstein-De Marco (see contact information below).
- Tours last around two and a half hours and are free of charge.
