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Published on: December 14, 2017
Measuring changes in environmental radiological background from construction of an advanced nuclear reactor testing
Jim Drachenberg1, James E Johnstone1, Gage McClaine1
1Abilene Christian University, United States of America.
Journal of Environmental Radioactivity
|June 25, 2026
Summary
We developed a method to monitor environmental radiation around advanced nuclear reactors. Surveys at NEXT Lab showed low radiation levels, with changes linked to construction and building materials.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Nuclear Engineering
- Radiation Monitoring
Background:
- Advanced nuclear reactor facilities require careful environmental monitoring.
- Understanding baseline radiological conditions is crucial before operation.
- Construction activities can impact the local radiation environment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a method for surveying and tracking environmental radiological background changes.
- To establish baseline gamma-radiation levels at an advanced nuclear reactor research facility.
- To identify environmental radiation variations during facility construction.
Main Methods:
- Conducting environmental gamma-radiation surveys.
- Establishing baseline radiological measurements before radioactive material introduction.
- Comparing radiation levels in areas affected by construction and within facilities.
Main Results:
- Observed low radiation dosage rates, with highest rates at 15% of the US average.
- Detected approximately 20% changes in radiological background due to construction.
- Noted approximately 20% variations within facilities correlated with building materials.
Conclusions:
- The proposed method effectively surveys and tracks environmental radiological background.
- Baseline radiation levels at NEXT Lab are significantly below average US levels.
- Construction and building materials demonstrably influence local radiological background.
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