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129I in the oceans: origins and applications
1Centre de Spectrométrie Nucléaire et de Spectrométrie de Masse, IN2P3-CNRS, Orsay, France. raisbeck@csnsm.in2p3.fr
The Science of the Total Environment
|November 24, 1999
Summary
The ocean
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiochemistry
- Oceanography
Background:
- The pre-nuclear ocean contained about 100 kg of iodine-129 (129I).
- Nuclear activities have increased oceanic 129I by over tenfold.
- Major sources include reprocessing plants at La Hague and Sellafield.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of nuclear activities on oceanic 129I levels.
- To explore the use of 129I as a tracer in marine environments.
- To differentiate nuclear waste sources and track pollutant transport.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of oceanic 129I inventory and distribution.
- Modeling of 129I as a tracer for ocean currents and mixing.
- Comparison of 129I signatures from different nuclear sources.
Main Results:
- Oceanic 129I inventory significantly elevated due to nuclear activities.
- La Hague and Sellafield are primary contributors to marine 129I.
- 129I effectively traces pathways and transit times in the North Atlantic and Arctic.
Conclusions:
- Nuclear reprocessing discharges have substantially altered oceanic 129I.
- 129I serves as a valuable tool for oceanographic research and waste management.
- 129I can indicate the origin of nuclear waste and the spread of pollutants.