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Biological Samples Preparation for Speciation at Cryogenic Temperature using High-Resolution X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Published on: May 27, 2022
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Chemical availability of fallout radionuclides in cryoconite.
H Davidson1, G E Millward1, C C Clason2
1School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth, Plymouth, UK.
Journal of Environmental Radioactivity
|August 3, 2023
Summary
Legacy fallout radionuclides (FRNs) in glacier cryoconite can be released into meltwater, posing risks to downstream environments and food chains. Understanding FRN mobilization from glaciers is crucial for assessing ecological and health impacts.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Geochemistry
- Radiochemistry
Background:
- Glaciers accumulate legacy fallout radionuclides (FRNs) in cryoconite, a contaminant-binding material.
- FRNs can be released from glaciers via meltwater, impacting downstream ecosystems.
- The environmental and health risks of FRN release from melting glaciers are not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the chemical availability and release potential of FRNs adsorbed to cryoconite.
- To investigate the differential solubilization of specific FRNs (cesium-137, lead-210, americium-241) from glacial cryoconite.
- To understand the implications of FRN mobilization for glacial-dependent ecology and food chains.
Main Methods:
- Applied a three-stage sequential chemical extraction method to cryoconite samples from Swedish and Icelandic glaciers.
- Measured activity concentrations of 137Cs, unsupported 210Pb (210Pb un), and 241Am in cryoconite.
- Analyzed the stepwise solubilization and particulate retention of FRNs during chemical extraction.
Main Results:
- FRNs adsorbed to cryoconite exhibit varying degrees of solubilization.
- Unsupported 210Pb (210Pb un) showed significant stepwise solubilization.
- 137Cs and 241Am were predominantly retained in the particulate phase during extraction.
- Measured FRN activity concentrations were orders of magnitude above regional backgrounds.
Conclusions:
- Cryoconite acts as a significant reservoir for FRNs in glacial environments.
- Glacier melting can lead to the mobilization of FRN-contaminated particles.
- The differential release of FRNs from cryoconite has implications for downstream aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the ecological and human health risks associated with radiologically contaminated glacial meltwater.
Keywords:
Chemical availabilityContaminant mobilityCryoconiteFallout radionuclidesGlaciersSequential extractionsMore Related Videos
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