1
|
Ang JWL, Bongrand A, Duval S, Donnard J, Jolis EM, Utsunomiya S, Minomo K, Koivula R, Siitari-Kauppi M, Law GTW. Detecting radioactive particles in complex environmental samples using real-time autoradiography. Sci Rep 2024; 14:5413. [PMID: 38443397 PMCID: PMC10915129 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-52876-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Radioactive particles often contain very high radioactivity concentrations and are widespread. They pose a potential risk to human health and the environment. Their detection, quantification, and characterization are crucial if we are to understand their impact. Here, we present the use of a real-time autoradiography gaseous detector (using parallel ionization multiplier) to expedite and improve the accuracy of radioactive particle screening in complex environmental samples. First, standard particles were used to assess the detector capabilities (spatial resolution, spectrometry, and artefact contributions), then, we applied the technique to more complex and environmentally relevant samples. The real-time autoradiography technique provides data with a spatial resolution (≲100 µm) suitable for particle analysis in complex samples. Further, it can differentiate between particles predominantly emitting alpha and beta radiation. Here, the technique is applied to radioactive cesium-rich microparticles collected from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear exclusion zone, showing their accurate detection, and demonstrating the viability of real-time autoradiography in environmental scenarios. Indeed, for more complex samples (radioactive particles in a less radioactive heterogeneous background mix of minerals), the technique permits relatively high selectivity for radioactive particle screening (up to 61.2% success rate) with low false positive percentages (~ 1%).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joyce W L Ang
- Department of Chemistry, Radiochemistry Unit, The University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
- Singapore Nuclear Safety and Research Initiative, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 138602, Singapore.
| | - Arthur Bongrand
- AI4R, 2 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307, Nantes, France
- IMT Atlantique, Nantes Université, CNRS, 44000, Nantes, SUBATECH, France
| | - Samuel Duval
- AI4R, 2 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307, Nantes, France
| | | | - Ester M Jolis
- Circular Economy Solutions Research Laboratory, Geological Survey of Finland GTK, 02151, Espoo, Finland
| | - Satoshi Utsunomiya
- Department of Chemistry, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-Ku, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
| | - Kenta Minomo
- Department of Chemistry, Kyushu University, 744 Motooka, Nishi-Ku, Fukuoka, 819-0395, Japan
| | - Risto Koivula
- Department of Chemistry, Radiochemistry Unit, The University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Marja Siitari-Kauppi
- Department of Chemistry, Radiochemistry Unit, The University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Gareth T W Law
- Department of Chemistry, Radiochemistry Unit, The University of Helsinki, 00014, Helsinki, Finland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gembal M, Czerski P, Milczarczyk E, Warenik-Bany M. Levels of caesium-137 in food of animal origin in Poland. J Vet Res 2023; 67:407-414. [PMID: 37786845 PMCID: PMC10541660 DOI: 10.2478/jvetres-2023-0044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Radioactive contamination of the environment is one of the greatest threats after a nuclear accident due to released radionuclides. From a radiotoxicological point of view, the most important radionuclide is caesium-137. Formed mainly during nuclear explosions, caesium-137 can persist in the soil for many years, from where it constantly enters the food chain. One of the elements of ensuring food safety is the monitoring of its radioactive contamination, mainly with radioactive caesium isotopes. The aim of the study was to determine the content of caesium-137 in food of animal origin. Material and Methods A total of 1,416 muscle samples from cattle, sheep, pigs, game and fish, as well as chicken eggs and dairy products were examined using gamma-ray spectrometry. Results Caesium-137 activities ranged from below the minimum detectable activity concentration (MDC) to over 4,000 Bq/kg wet weight (w.w.). Most often, the values did not exceed the MDC or were in a range below 100 Bq/kg. The exception was the muscle tissue of game animals, especially wild boar, where a significant activity of caesium-137 was recorded, the highest of which was 4,136.8 ± 238 Bq/kg w.w. Committed effective doses determined for each matrix ranged from 0.01 to 0.83 µSv/kg, with the highest value determined for wild boar. Conclusion The calculated exposure doses with values well below the accepted low radiation dose (100 mSv) did not indicate any significant amounts of ionising radiation from the food consumed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Magdalena Gembal
- Radiobiology Department, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
| | - Paweł Czerski
- Radiobiology Department, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
| | - Ewelina Milczarczyk
- Radiobiology Department, National Veterinary Research Institute, 24-100 Pulawy, Poland
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Identification, isolation, and characterization of a novel type of Fukushima-derived microparticle. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-022-08561-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
AbstractIn the course of the Fukushima nuclear accident, radionuclides were released in various forms, including so-called radiocesium-bearing microparticles (CsMP). So far, four types of CsMP were described: Type A is smaller in size (< 10 μm), Types B, C, and D are larger (> 100 μm). In this work, we present a novel type of CsMP (proclaimed Type E). Three particles of Type E were extracted from a contaminated blade of grass that was sampled 1.5 km from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in late 2011. They were located using autoradiography, isolated using an optical microscope and micromanipulator, and characterized using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and low-level gamma-ray spectrometry. Type E CsMPs are 10–20 μm in size and exhibit an unusually low and barely detectable 137Cs activity of only ≤ 10 mBq per particle. Their brittle and fragile character may indicate a high surface tension.
Collapse
|
4
|
Kobylinska N, Puzyrnaya L, Pshinko G. Magnetic nanocomposites based on Zn,Al-LDH intercalated with citric and EDTA groups for the removal of U(vi) from environmental and wastewater: synergistic effect and adsorption mechanism study. RSC Adv 2022; 12:32156-32172. [PMID: 36425713 PMCID: PMC9644705 DOI: 10.1039/d2ra05503a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The efficient removal of U(vi) ions from contaminated natural waters and wastewaters of industrial processing plants by novel magnetic nanocomposites based on magnetite and Zn,Al-layered double hydroxides intercalated with citric and EDTA groups (Fe3O4/Zn,Al-LDH/Cit and Fe3O4/Zn,Al-LDH/EDTA) was shown. These adsorbents were obtained using co-precipitation and ion-exchange techniques. The infrared spectroscopy confirmed the existence of O-containing groups on the surfaces of Fe3O4/Zn,Al-LDH/Cit and Fe3O4/Zn,Al-LDH/EDTA, which could provide active sites in the interlayer of the adsorbents for the pollutants removal. The intercalation of Zn,Al-LDH with chelating EDTA-groups significantly increased the adsorption capacity toward U(vi) ions (131.22 mg g-1) compared to citric moieties in a wide range of pH (3.5-9.0). The maximum adsorption capacities of U(vi) at pH 7.5 were 81.12 mg g-1 for Fe3O4/Zn,Al-LDH/EDTA and 21.6 mg g-1 for Fe3O4/Zn,Al-LDH/Cit. The higher adsorption capacity of Fe3O4/Zn,Al-LDH/EDTA vs. the citric sample might be explained by high affinity of LDH-supports and high-activity of the chelating groups in formation of the complexes in the interlayer space of the magnetic nanocomposite. The removal of U(vi) by the magnetic nanocomposites occurred due to interlayer complexation and electrostatic interactions. The cations (Na+, K+, Ca2+), HCO3 - and fulvic acid anions being typical for natural waters were practically not affected upon the removal of U(vi) from aqueous media. The adsorption performance of Fe3O4/Zn,Al-LDH/EDTA nanocomposites was evaluated in the analysis of environmental and wastewater samples with recoveries in the range of 95.8-99.9%. This superior intercalation performance of LDH-supports provides simple and low-cost adsorbents, providing a strategy for decontamination of radionuclides from wastewater.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Kobylinska
- Dumansky Institute of Colloid and Water Chemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine 42 Akad. Vernadsky Blvd. Kyiv 03142 Ukraine
| | - Liubov Puzyrnaya
- Dumansky Institute of Colloid and Water Chemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine 42 Akad. Vernadsky Blvd. Kyiv 03142 Ukraine
| | - Galina Pshinko
- Dumansky Institute of Colloid and Water Chemistry, National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine 42 Akad. Vernadsky Blvd. Kyiv 03142 Ukraine
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bugai D, Kireev S, Hoque MA, Kubko Y, Smith J. Natural attenuation processes control groundwater contamination in the Chernobyl exclusion zone: evidence from 35 years of radiological monitoring. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18215. [PMID: 36309568 PMCID: PMC9617897 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22842-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The Chernobyl Exclusion Zone (CEZ) contains the vast majority of radionuclides released by the accident in nuclear fuel particle form. We present and analyze groundwater measurements collected from the monitoring network in CEZ covering key aquifers over 35 years since the accident. These new data, together with a comprehensive analysis of historical data shows that 90Sr remains mobile in the subsurface environment, while groundwater concentrations of 137Cs, Pu isotopes and 241Am are relatively low, and are not of radiological concern. During the last two decades, 90Sr and 137Cs levels have declined or remained stable over time in the majority of monitoring locations. This is due to natural attenuation driven by gradual exhaustion of the fuel particle source, geochemical evolution of groundwater downstream from waste dumps and radionuclide retention in surface soil due to absorption and bio-cycling. Decommissioning of the cooling pond and construction of the 'New safe confinement' over Unit 4 (damaged reactor) also favored better protection of groundwater close to the Chernobyl plant site. Data from confined and unconfined aquifers, as well as rivers, evidence low radiological risks from groundwater contamination both outside the CEZ and to onsite "self-settlers". Though several groundwater contamination "hot spots" remain in the vicinity of Unit 4, "Red Forest" waste trenches and surface water bodies with contaminated bottom sediments, the findings of this study support a monitored natural attenuation approach to groundwater management in the CEZ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dmitri Bugai
- grid.510157.7Institute of Geological Sciences, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Sergey Kireev
- State Special Enterprise “Ecocenter”, Chernobyl, Ukraine
| | - Mohammad A. Hoque
- grid.4701.20000 0001 0728 6636University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
| | - Yuri Kubko
- grid.510157.7Institute of Geological Sciences, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Jim Smith
- grid.4701.20000 0001 0728 6636University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Guillén J, Beresford NA, Baigazinov Z, Salas A, Kunduzbaeva A. Can stable elements (Cs and Sr) be used as proxies for the estimation of radionuclide soil-plant transfer factors? ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 299:118897. [PMID: 35104562 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Transfer parameters are key inputs for modeling radionuclide transfer in the environment and estimating risk to humans and wildlife. However, there are no data for many radionuclide-foodstuff/wildlife species combinations. The use of parameters derived from stable element data when data for radionuclides are lacking is increasingly common. But, do radionuclides and stable elements behave in a sufficiently similar way in the environment? To answer this question, at least for soil to plant transfer, sampling was conducted in four different countries (England, Kazakhstan, Spain and Ukraine) affected by different anthropogenic radionuclide source terms (in chronological order: global fallout, Semipalatinsk Test Site, the 1957 Windscale accident and the 1986 Chernobyl accident) together with a bibliographical review. Soil to grass transfer parameters (ratio between dry matter concentrations in plant and soil), Fv, for 137Cs and 90Sr were significantly higher than those for stable elements, suggesting that the use of the latter could lead to underestimating radionuclide concentrations in plant samples Transfer parameters for 137Cs and stable Cs were linearly correlated, with a slope of 1.54. No such correlation was observed for 90Sr and stable Sr, the mean value of the 90Sr:Sr ratio was 35 ranging (0.33-126); few data were available for the Sr comparison. The use of radionuclide transfer parameters, whenever possible, is recommended over derivation from stable element concentrations. However, we acknowledge that for many radionuclides there will be few or no radionuclide data from environmental studies. From analyses of the data collated there is evidence of a decreasing trend in the Fv(137Cs)/Fv(Cs) ratio with time from the Chernobyl accident.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Guillén
- LARUEX, Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory, Dpt. Applied Physics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Avda. Universidad, S/n, 10003, Cáceres, Spain.
| | - N A Beresford
- UKCEH, UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, Lancaster Environment Centre, Library Av. Bailrigg, Lancaster, LA1 4AP, United Kingdom
| | - Zh Baigazinov
- IRSE NNC RK, Institute Radiation Safety and Ecology, National Nuclear Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Beibit Atom St. 2, Building #23, Kurchatov City, 071100, East-Kazakhstan region, Kazakhstan; Institute of Radiochemistry and Radioecology, University of Pannonia, 10 Egyetem Str, Veszprem, H-8200, Hungary
| | - A Salas
- LARUEX, Environmental Radioactivity Laboratory, Dpt. Applied Physics, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Extremadura, Avda. Universidad, S/n, 10003, Cáceres, Spain
| | - A Kunduzbaeva
- IRSE NNC RK, Institute Radiation Safety and Ecology, National Nuclear Center of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Beibit Atom St. 2, Building #23, Kurchatov City, 071100, East-Kazakhstan region, Kazakhstan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Masson O, Romanenko O, Saunier O, Kirieiev S, Protsak V, Laptev G, Voitsekhovych O, Durand V, Coppin F, Steinhauser G, de Vismes Ott A, Renaud P, Didier D, Boulet B, Morin M, Hýža M, Camps J, Belyaeva O, Dalheimer A, Eleftheriadis K, Gascó-Leonarte C, Ioannidou A, Isajenko K, Karhunen T, Kastlander J, Katzlberger C, Kierepko R, Knetsch GJ, Kónyi JK, Mietelski JW, Mirsch M, Møller B, Nikolić JK, Povinec PP, Rusconi R, Samsonov V, Sýkora I, Simion E, Steinmann P, Stoulos S, Suarez-Navarro JA, Wershofen H, Zapata-García D, Zorko B. Europe-Wide Atmospheric Radionuclide Dispersion by Unprecedented Wildfires in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, April 2020. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:13834-13848. [PMID: 34585576 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c03314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
From early April 2020, wildfires raged in the highly contaminated areas around the Chernobyl nuclear power plant (CNPP), Ukraine. For about 4 weeks, the fires spread around and into the Chernobyl exclusion zone (CEZ) and came within a few kilometers of both the CNPP and radioactive waste storage facilities. Wildfires occurred on several occasions throughout the month of April. They were extinguished, but weather conditions and the spread of fires by airborne embers and smoldering fires led to new fires starting at different locations of the CEZ. The forest fires were only completely under control at the beginning of May, thanks to the tireless and incessant work of the firefighters and a period of sustained precipitation. In total, 0.7-1.2 TBq 137Cs were released into the atmosphere. Smoke plumes partly spread south and west and contributed to the detection of airborne 137Cs over the Ukrainian territory and as far away as Western Europe. The increase in airborne 137Cs ranged from several hundred μBq·m-3 in northern Ukraine to trace levels of a few μBq·m-3 or even within the usual background level in other European countries. Dispersion modeling determined the plume arrival time and was helpful in the assessment of the possible increase in airborne 137Cs concentrations in Europe. Detections of airborne 90Sr (emission estimate 345-612 GBq) and Pu (up to 75 GBq, mostly 241Pu) were reported from the CEZ. Americium-241 represented only 1.4% of the total source term corresponding to the studied anthropogenic radionuclides but would have contributed up to 80% of the inhalation dose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Masson
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | | | - Olivier Saunier
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Serhii Kirieiev
- State Specialized Enterprise Ecocentre (SSE ECOCENTRE), Chornobyl, Kiev region 07270, Ukraine
| | - Valentin Protsak
- Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Institute (UHMI), Kyiv 03028, Ukraine
| | - Gennady Laptev
- Ukrainian Hydrometeorological Institute (UHMI), Kyiv 03028, Ukraine
| | | | - Vanessa Durand
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Frédéric Coppin
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Georg Steinhauser
- Institute of Radioecology and Radiation Protection, Leibniz Universität Hannover, Hannover 30419, Germany
| | - Anne de Vismes Ott
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Philippe Renaud
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Damien Didier
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Béatrice Boulet
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Maxime Morin
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire (IRSN), Fontenay-Aux-Roses 92260, France
| | - Miroslav Hýža
- National Radiation Protection Institute (SÚRO), Prague 4 140 00, Czech Republic
| | - Johan Camps
- StudieCentrum voor Kernenergie - Centre d'Etude de l'Energie Nucléaire (SCK-CEN), Mol 2400, Belgium
| | - Olga Belyaeva
- Department of Radioecology, Center for Ecological-Noosphere Studies (NAS RA), Yerevan 0025, Armenia
| | | | - Konstantinos Eleftheriadis
- Institute of Nuclear and Radiological Sciences & Technology, Energy & Safety, National Centre for Scientific Research "Demokritos", Athens 15310, Greece
| | - Catalina Gascó-Leonarte
- Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Unidad de Radioactividad Ambiental y Vigilancia Radiológica, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Alexandra Ioannidou
- Nuclear Physics and Elementary Particle Physics Division, Physics Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece
| | - Krzysztof Isajenko
- Central Laboratory for Radiological Protection (CLRP), Warsaw, PL 03-194, Poland
| | - Tero Karhunen
- Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK), PL 14, Helsinki 00881, Finland
| | | | - Christian Katzlberger
- Department of Radiation Protection and Technical Quality Assurance, Austrian Agency for Health and Food Safety (AGES), Vienna 1220, Austria
| | - Renata Kierepko
- The Henryk Nievodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics (IFJ), Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków 31-342,Poland
| | - Gert-Jan Knetsch
- National Institute of Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, Bilthoven, BA NL-3720, The Netherlands
| | - Júlia Kövendiné Kónyi
- Department of Radiobiology and Radiohygiene (NNK SSFO), National Public Health Center, Budapest H-1221, Hungary
| | - Jerzy Wojciech Mietelski
- The Henryk Nievodniczanski Institute of Nuclear Physics (IFJ), Polish Academy of Sciences, Kraków 31-342,Poland
| | | | - Bredo Møller
- Emergency Preparedness and Response, Norwegian Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (DSA), Svanvik NO-9925, Norway
| | - Jelena Krneta Nikolić
- Department of Radiation and Environmental Protection, Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, Belgrade 11351, Serbia
| | - Pavel Peter Povinec
- Department of Nuclear Physics and Biophysics, Comenius University, Bratislava 842 48, Slovakia
| | - Rosella Rusconi
- Centro Regionale Radioprotezione, Agenzia Regionale per la Protezione dell'Ambiente della Lombardia (ARPA Lombardia), 20124 Milan, Italy
| | - Vladimir Samsonov
- National Center for Hydrometeorology, Radioactive Contamination Control, and Environmental Monitoring (BELHYDROMET), Minsk, 220114, Belarus
| | - Ivan Sýkora
- Department of Nuclear Physics and Biophysics, Comenius University, Bratislava 842 48, Slovakia
| | - Elena Simion
- National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA), National Reference Laboratory, Bucharest 060031, Romania
| | - Philipp Steinmann
- Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH - OFSP), Environmental Radioactivity Section, Liebefeld CH-3097, Switzerland
| | - Stylianos Stoulos
- Nuclear Physics and Elementary Particle Physics Division, Physics Department, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece
| | - José Antonio Suarez-Navarro
- Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT), Unidad de Radioactividad Ambiental y Vigilancia Radiológica, Madrid 28040, Spain
| | - Herbert Wershofen
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB), Braunschweig 38116, Germany
| | | | - Benjamin Zorko
- Institut "Jozef Stefan" (IJS), Ljubljana SI-100, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Lin M, Qiao J, Hou X, Dellwig O, Steier P, Hain K, Golser R, Zhu L. 70-Year Anthropogenic Uranium Imprints of Nuclear Activities in Baltic Sea Sediments. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:8918-8927. [PMID: 34105953 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c02136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A strongly stratified water structure and a densely populated catchment make the Baltic Sea one of the most polluted seas. Understanding its circulation pattern and time scale is essential to predict the dynamics of hypoxia, eutrophication, and pollutants. Anthropogenic 236U and 233U have been demonstrated as excellent transient tracers in oceanic studies, but unclear input history and inadequate long-term monitoring records limit their application in the Baltic Sea. From two dated Baltic sediment cores, we obtained high-resolution records of anthropogenic uranium imprints originating from three major human nuclear activities throughout the Atomic Era. Using the novel 233U/236U signature, we distinguished and quantified 236U inputs from global fallout (45.4-52.1%), Chernobyl accident (0.3-1.8%), and discharges from civil nuclear industries (46.1-54.3%) to the Baltic Sea. We estimated the total release of 233U (7-15 kg) from the atmospheric nuclear weapon testing and pinpointed the 233U peak signal in the mid-to-late 1950s as a potential time marker for the onset of the Anthropocene Epoch. This work also provides fundamental 236U data on Chernobyl accident and early discharges from civil nuclear facilities, prompting worldwide 233U-236U tracer studies. We anticipate our data to be used in a broader application in model-observation interdisciplinary research on water circulation and pollutant dynamics in the Baltic Sea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mu Lin
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DTU Risø Campus, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Jixin Qiao
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DTU Risø Campus, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Xiaolin Hou
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DTU Risø Campus, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Olaf Dellwig
- Department of Marine Geology, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, IOW, 18119 Rostock, Germany
| | - Peter Steier
- VERA Laboratory, Faculty of Physics, Isotope Physics, University of Vienna, Währinger Straße 17, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Karin Hain
- VERA Laboratory, Faculty of Physics, Isotope Physics, University of Vienna, Währinger Straße 17, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Robin Golser
- VERA Laboratory, Faculty of Physics, Isotope Physics, University of Vienna, Währinger Straße 17, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Liuchao Zhu
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, DTU Risø Campus, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Kinsela AS, Bligh MW, Vázquez-Campos X, Sun Y, Wilkins MR, Comarmond MJ, Rowling B, Payne TE, Waite TD. Biogeochemical Mobility of Contaminants from a Replica Radioactive Waste Trench in Response to Rainfall-Induced Redox Oscillations. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:8793-8805. [PMID: 34110792 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c01604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Results of investigations into factors influencing contaminant mobility in a replica trench located adjacent to a legacy radioactive waste site are presented in this study. The trench was filled with nonhazardous iron- and organic matter (OM)-rich components, as well as three contaminant analogues strontium, cesium, and neodymium to examine contaminant behavior. Imposed redox/water-level oscillations, where oxygen-laden rainwater was added to the anoxic trench, resulted in marked biogeochemical changes including the removal of aqueous Fe(II) and circulation of dissolved carbon, along with shifts to microbial communities involved in cycling iron (Gallionella, Sideroxydans) and methane generation (Methylomonas, Methylococcaceae). Contaminant mobility depended upon element speciation and rainfall event intensity. Strontium remained mobile, being readily translocated under hydrological perturbations. Strong ion-exchange reactions and structural incorporation into double-layer clay minerals were likely responsible for greater retention of Cs, which, along with Sr, was unaffected by redox oscillations. Neodymium was initially immobilized within the anoxic trenches, due to either secondary mineral (phosphate) precipitation or via the chemisorption of organic- and carbonate-Nd complexes onto variably charged solid phases. Oxic rainwater intrusions altered Nd mobility via competing effects. Oxidation of Fe(II) led to partial retention of Nd within highly sorbing Fe(III)/OM phases, whereas pH decreases associated with rainwater influxes resulted in a release of adsorbed Nd to solution with both pH and OM presumed to be the key factors controlling Nd attenuation. Collectively, the behavior of simulated contaminants within this replica trench provided unique insights into trench water biogeochemistry and contaminant cycling in a redox oscillatory environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Kinsela
- UNSW Water Research Centre and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Mark W Bligh
- UNSW Water Research Centre and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Xabier Vázquez-Campos
- NSW Systems Biology Initiative, School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Yingying Sun
- UNSW Water Research Centre and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - Marc R Wilkins
- NSW Systems Biology Initiative, School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, The University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| | - M Josick Comarmond
- Environmental Research Theme, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia
| | - Brett Rowling
- Environmental Research Theme, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia
| | - Timothy E Payne
- Environmental Research Theme, Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Locked Bag 2001, Kirrawee DC, NSW 2232, Australia
| | - T David Waite
- UNSW Water Research Centre and School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney 2052, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Jiao C, Hou C, Zhang M, Chao N, Gao Y, Li Y. Potential application of aluminum phosphate binder in the treatment of waste containing strontium: effects of SrO content on structures and leaching stabilities of aluminum phosphate solidified systems. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-021-07801-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
11
|
Gerber E, Romanchuk AY, Weiss S, Bauters S, Schacherl B, Vitova T, Hübner R, Shams Aldin Azzam S, Detollenaere D, Banerjee D, Butorin SM, Kalmykov SN, Kvashnina KO. Insight into the structure–property relationship of UO 2 nanoparticles. Inorg Chem Front 2021. [DOI: 10.1039/d0qi01140a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
We show that the structural and electronic properties of UO2 NPs (2–3 nm) are similar to those of bulk UO2 under inert conditions, with U(iv) as the dominating oxidation state, though NPs oxidize with time and under the X-ray beam.
Collapse
|
12
|
Kashparov V, Salbu B, Simonucci C, Levchuk S, Reinoso-Maset E, Lind OC, Maloshtan I, Protsak V, Courbet C, Nguyen H. Validation of a fuel particle dissolution model with samples from the Red Forest within the Chernobyl exclusion zone. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 223-224:106387. [PMID: 32868094 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2020.106387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 08/13/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The contamination in the near exclusion zone of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant (ChNPP) with 90Sr, 238-240Pu and 241Am is associated with irradiated nuclear fuel particles. Fit for purpose models enabling long term prediction of mobility and bioavailability of particle-associated radionuclides are crucial for radiation protection of humans and the environment, as well as for planning of remediation measures and future land use. In the present work, a dynamic fuel particle dissolution model developed in 1999-2002 is described and validated using data based on sampling in 2015. The model is based on the characterization of the radionuclide source term of the waste in a shallow sub-surface radioactive waste storage, trench #22, in the Chernobyl Pilot Site (CPS) located in the Red Forest, 2.5 km west of the ChNPP, as well as the description of physical and chemical properties of the fuel particles and subsequent radionuclide leaching into the soil solution. Transformation rate constants of the fuel particle dissolution model related to topsoil, radioactive waste trench and submerged materials, and drained cooling pond sediments, should largely control the mobility and bioavailability of radionuclides (e.g., solubility in the soil, migration to groundwater and transfer to plants). The predicting power of the Chernobyl fuel particle dissolution model with respect to radionuclide leaching dynamics was validated using samples from the same experimental site, showing that predicted particle leaching and subsequent mobility and bioavailability were within 46 ± 3% of the observed data. Therefore, linking source- and release-scenario dependent characteristics of radioactive particles to their potential weathering can provide information that can be implemented in impact assessments models for existing contaminated areas as well as for future events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Kashparov
- National University of Life and Environment Sciences (NUBiP of Ukraine), Ukraine; Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD CoE), Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway.
| | - B Salbu
- National University of Life and Environment Sciences (NUBiP of Ukraine), Ukraine; Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD CoE), Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - C Simonucci
- IRSN, PSE-ENV/SIRSE/LER-NORD, POB 17, F-92262, Fontenay-aux-Roses Cedex, France
| | - S Levchuk
- National University of Life and Environment Sciences (NUBiP of Ukraine), Ukraine
| | - E Reinoso-Maset
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD CoE), Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - O C Lind
- Centre for Environmental Radioactivity (CERAD CoE), Faculty of Environmental Sciences and Natural Resource Management, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, P.O. Box 5003, N-1432 Ås, Norway
| | - I Maloshtan
- National University of Life and Environment Sciences (NUBiP of Ukraine), Ukraine
| | - V Protsak
- National University of Life and Environment Sciences (NUBiP of Ukraine), Ukraine
| | - C Courbet
- INTERA, 1 Rue des Vergers, Bât. 3, F-69760, Limonest, France
| | - H Nguyen
- BURGEAP, 143 avenue de Verdun, F-92442, Issy-les-Moulineaux Cedex, France
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Romanchuk AY, Vlasova IE, Kalmykov SN. Speciation of Uranium and Plutonium From Nuclear Legacy Sites to the Environment: A Mini Review. Front Chem 2020; 8:630. [PMID: 32903456 PMCID: PMC7434977 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2020.00630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The row of 15 chemical elements from Ac to Lr with atomic numbers from 89 to 103 are known as the actinides, which are all radioactive. Among them, uranium and plutonium are the most important as they are used in the nuclear fuel cycle and nuclear weapon production. Since the beginning of national nuclear programs and nuclear tests, many radioactively contaminated nuclear legacy sites, have been formed. This mini review covers the latest experimental, modeling, and case studies of plutonium and uranium migration in the environment, including the speciation of these elements and the chemical reactions that control their migration pathways.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Stepan N. Kalmykov
- Department of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Abstract
The consequences of the Chernobyl disaster continue to threaten humans and ecosystems across fallout gradient in Northern Ukraine and nearby. Forest ecosystems contain substantial stocks of long-lived radionuclide 90Sr which was leached from the fuel matrix during the disaster. Nowadays, there is a lack of information about current transfer factors (TF) of this radionuclide from soil to the stemwood of native tree species. We have estimated 90Sr content in the forest stemwood of three tree species utilizing models of their growth and yield and collected woody samplings. TFs provided here vary greatly across studied tree species (18.0 × 2.1±1, 8.7 × 2.8±1, and 10.4 × 6.0±1 n × 10−3 m2·kg−1 (geometrical mean (GM) ± geometrical standard deviation, GSD) for the above species, respectively) and together with indicators of soil contamination allow us to reliably assess local stocks in the stemwood. Silver birch stands are estimated to deposit the highest 90Sr stocks. Herewith, at 25 years old Black alder stands could accumulate higher stocks (up to 35 MBq·ha−1) under rich growth conditions. TFs obtained in this study substantially exceed values provided by the International Atomic Energy Agency for studied tree species and thus could entail respective restrictions on use of firewood across large areas in Ukrainian Polissya. Data provided here may be harnessed to support decisions of respective stakeholders to provide credibly safe management of the contaminated forest ecosystems.
Collapse
|