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Considerations about TENORM: a study case on niobium facilities
M A Pires do Rio1, H M Fernandes, E C S Amaral
1Instituto de Radioprotecao e Dosimetria/CNEN Av. Salvador Allende, s/n CEP: 22780-160 Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. mapr@ird.gov.br
Health Physics
|January 30, 2003
Summary
Radiological impacts from niobium mining and milling were assessed. While operational phases showed no significant impact, future land use of waste disposal sites requires radiation protection measures for unrestricted access.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiological Science
- Mining Engineering
Background:
- Niobium mining and milling generate radioactive waste.
- Assessing radiological impacts is crucial for environmental and public safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate radiological impacts from niobium mining and milling operations.
- To assess impacts for both operational and post-operational scenarios.
Main Methods:
- Case studies of two niobium mining facilities.
- Sampling and analysis of wastes, effluents, and by-products.
- Mass balance calculations and dose assessment.
Main Results:
- No significant radiological impacts were found during the operational phase.
- Unrestricted use of waste disposal areas is not permissible due to radiation protection requirements.
Conclusions:
- Niobium mining operations pose minimal risk during operation.
- Post-operational management of waste sites is critical for radiation safety.