The effects of variation in source and medium properties upon near- and far-field spectra for elastic waves are examined theoretically by considering spherical wave propagation in unbounded elastic media. This type of analysis, although idealized, provides insight into the relative effects of the various source and medium parameters on both tamped and decoupled explosions. It also provides a basis for interpreting both field and laboratory experimental data obtained during spherical wave propagation in real media. In this paper I attempt to unify the work that has been done on spherical wave propagation in elastic media. I present the results in nondimensional forms, in hopes that others may find these forms of the solutions useful and some of the conclusions, based upon my parameter studies, enlightening. Also included is a discussion of some of the limitations of the theory and examples of applications of the spherical wave propagation theory in real media.

An annotated bibliography is presented which was compiled while searching the literature for information on fluid inclusions in salt for the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's study on the deep-geologic disposal of nuclear waste. The migration of fluid inclusions in a thermal gradient is a potential hazard to the safe disposal of nuclear waste in a salt repository. At the present time, a prediction as to whether this hazard precludes the use of salt for waste disposal can not be made. Limited data from the Salt-Vault in situ heater experiments in the early 1960's (Bradshaw and McClain, 1971) leave little doubt that fluid inclusions can migrate towards a heat source. In addition to the bibliography, there is a brief summary of the physical and chemical characteristics that together with the temperature of the waste will determine the chemical composition of the brine in contact with the waste canister, the rate of fluid migration, and the brine-canister-waste interactions.