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Summary
Environmental samples in Antarctica show levels of Bismuth-207 (207Bi) comparable to Cobalt-60 (60Co). This study also detected 207Bi contamination in commercially available high-purity bismuth.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiochemistry
- Nuclear Physics
Background:
- Bismuth-207 (207Bi) is a radionuclide of interest in environmental monitoring.
- Fallout radionuclides are often studied in remote regions like Antarctica.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure the levels of 207Bi in environmental samples from Antarctica.
- To assess the presence of 207Bi contamination in commercial bismuth products.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of water filters from Scott Base, Antarctica.
- Measurement of surface soil samples for radionuclide content.
- Quantification of 207Bi in market-available bismuth.
Main Results:
- 207Bi levels in Antarctic samples were similar to or slightly higher than 60Co.
- The activity ratios of 207Bi to Cesium-137 (137Cs) ranged from 0.001 to 0.018.
- Contamination of 207Bi was detected in "high purity" bismuth, at a level of 1.9 mBq/g-Bi.
Conclusions:
- 207Bi is present in Antarctic environmental samples at levels comparable to other fallout nuclides.
- Commercial bismuth may be a source of 207Bi contamination.
- Further investigation into the sources and implications of 207Bi is warranted.