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Analytical techniques for charactering radioactive particles deposited in the environment
Brit Salbu1, Ole Christian Lind1
1CERAD CoE, Faculty of Environmental Sciences and nature Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432, Aas, Norway.
Journal of Environmental Radioactivity
|November 3, 2019
Summary
Radioactive particles from nuclear sources pose radiological risks. Analyzing particle characteristics is crucial for accurate environmental impact assessments, moving beyond bulk concentration models.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiochemistry
- Nuclear Forensics
Background:
- Nuclear and radiological sources since 1945 have released radioactive particles containing refractory elements into the environment.
- Particle composition varies by source, and release scenarios influence properties relevant to environmental transfer.
- Radioactive particles can act as point sources with significant radioactivity (MBq), posing radiological concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the limitations of bulk concentration models in radiological assessments.
- To emphasize the need for characterizing radioactive particles for accurate impact assessments.
- To present analytical strategies for characterizing radioactive particles and improving environmental assessments.
Main Methods:
- Focus on analytical strategies including screening techniques for hot spot identification.
- Utilize fractionation and single particle extraction techniques for speciation.
- Employ sequential leaching techniques to determine binding mechanisms, mobility, and bioavailability.
Main Results:
- Radioactive particles lead to uneven distribution of radionuclides and doses, unlike bulk concentration models.
- Leaching of radionuclides before measurement can cause underestimation of inventories.
- Characterizing particle properties is essential for reducing uncertainties in impact assessments.
Conclusions:
- A combination of analytical techniques is necessary to characterize radioactive particles.
- Improved characterization of radioactive particles will enhance environmental assessments for affected areas.
- Understanding particle weathering and radionuclide remobilization is key to accurate risk evaluation.
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