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Locating tritium sources in a research reactor building
1Radiation Safety and Control Division, Department of Fundamental Nuclear Engineering, Research Reactor Institute, Kyoto University, Kumatori-cho, Sen-nan-gun Osaka, Japan. fukuim@rri.kyoto-u.ac.jp
Health Physics
|September 13, 2005
Summary
Tritium was detected in research reactor condensates, originating from neutron irradiation of shielding or moderator materials. Investigations confirmed no significant heavy water or deuterium leakage into the environment.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Engineering
- Environmental Monitoring
Background:
- Elevated tritium concentrations were observed in research reactor condensates post-facility renovation.
- This indicated potential tritium sources within the containment building, necessitating further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the source and distribution of tritium within the research reactor containment building.
- To assess potential environmental contamination from heavy water or deuterium leakage.
Main Methods:
- Air monitoring in working areas and exhaust systems.
- Analysis of condensate specific activity.
- Tritium concentration measurement using an ionization chamber after Argon decay.
Main Results:
- Tritium sources were localized near the reactor core, with high specific activity in exhaust air from associated facilities.
- Condensate tritium levels remained stable and did not increase over several years.
- No environmental contamination by deuterium was detected.
Conclusions:
- Tritium in the reactor system is primarily produced by neutron irradiation of shielding/moderator materials or cover gas.
- No significant leakage of heavy water or deuterium occurred, mitigating environmental concerns.