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Yomogida T, Ouchi K, Morii S, Oka T, Kitatsuji Y, Koma Y, Konno K. Analysis of particles containing alpha emitters in stagnant water in Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station's Unit 3 reactor building. Sci Rep 2024; 14:14945. [PMID: 38942918 PMCID: PMC11213940 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-65522-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/30/2024] Open
Abstract
Particles containing alpha (α) nuclides were identified from sediment in stagnant water in the Unit 3 reactor building of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station (FDiNPS). We analyzed different concentrations of α-nuclide samples collected at two sampling sites, the torus room and the main steam isolation valve (MSIV) room. The solids in the stagnant water samples were classified, and the uranium (U) and total alpha concentrations of each fraction were measured by dissolution followed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and α-spectrometry. Most of the α-nuclides in the stagnant water samples from the torus and MSIV rooms were in particle fractions larger than 10 μm. We detected uranium-bearing particles ranging from sub-µm to 10 µm in size by scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) observations. The chemical forms of U particles were determined in U-Zr oxides, oxidized UO2, and U3O8 with micro-Raman spectroscopy. Other short-lived α-nuclides (plutonium [Pu], americium [Am], and curium [Cm]) were detected by alpha track detection, and the particles with α-nuclides was characterized by SEM-EDX analysis. α-nuclide-containing particles with several tens to several 100 µm in size mainly comprised iron (Fe) oxyhydroxides. In addition, we detected adsorbed U onto Fe oxyhydroxide particles in the MSIV room sample, which indicated nuclear fuel dissolution and secondary U accumulation. This study clarifies the major characteristics of U and other α-nuclides in sediment in stagnant water in the FDiNPS Unit 3 reactor building, which significantly contribute to the consideration of removal methods for particles containing α-nuclides in the stagnant water.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takumi Yomogida
- Nuclear Science and Engineering Center, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Ibaraki, 319-1195, Japan.
| | - Kazuki Ouchi
- Nuclear Science and Engineering Center, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Ibaraki, 319-1195, Japan
| | - Shiori Morii
- Nuclear Science and Engineering Center, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Ibaraki, 319-1195, Japan
| | - Toshitaka Oka
- Nuclear Science and Engineering Center, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Ibaraki, 319-1195, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Kitatsuji
- Nuclear Science and Engineering Center, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Ibaraki, 319-1195, Japan
| | - Yoshikazu Koma
- Collaborative Laboratories for Advanced Decommissioning Science (CLADS), Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Fukushima, 979-1151, Japan
| | - Katsuhiro Konno
- Fukushima Daiichi Decontamination and Decommissioning Engineering Company, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings Inc., Fukushima, 979-1301, Japan
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Yang H, Feng Q, Xu W, Tang Y, Bai G, Liu Y, Liu Z, Xia S, Wu Z, Zhang Y. Unraveling the nuclear isotope tapestry: Applications, challenges, and future horizons in a dynamic landscape. ECO-ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH 2024; 3:208-226. [PMID: 38655003 PMCID: PMC11035956 DOI: 10.1016/j.eehl.2024.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Nuclear isotopes, distinct atoms characterized by varying neutron counts, have profoundly influenced a myriad of sectors, spanning from medical diagnostics and therapeutic interventions to energy production and defense strategies. Their multifaceted applications have been celebrated for catalyzing revolutionary breakthroughs, yet these advancements simultaneously introduce intricate challenges that warrant thorough investigation. These challenges encompass safety protocols, potential environmental detriments, and the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding nuclear proliferation and disarmament. This comprehensive review embarks on a deep exploration of nuclear isotopes, elucidating their nuanced classifications, wide-ranging applications, intricate governing policies, and the multifaceted impacts of their unintended emissions or leaks. Furthermore, the study meticulously examines the cutting-edge remediation techniques currently employed to counteract nuclear contamination while projecting future innovations in this domain. By weaving together historical context, current applications, and forward-looking perspectives, this review offers a panoramic view of the nuclear isotope landscape. In conclusion, the significance of nuclear isotopes cannot be understated. As we stand at the crossroads of technological advancement and ethical responsibility, this review underscores the paramount importance of harnessing nuclear isotopes' potential in a manner that prioritizes safety, sustainability, and the greater good of humanity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Qi Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Weixiang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yadong Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Guoliang Bai
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yunli Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Zisen Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Shibin Xia
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan 430070, China
| | - Zhenbin Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430072, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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Guan YJ, He H, Fan KD, Wang SZ, Guo ZC, Wang HJ, Cui LJ, Chen W, Huang CP, Liu ZY, He XW, Guo KX, Zhang JJ, Xu ZY. Spatial distribution, source identification, and transportation paths of plutonium in the Beibu Gulf, South China Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 199:115972. [PMID: 38154170 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115972] [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: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the spatial distribution and source of plutonium isotopes in the Beibu Gulf, surface sediments were collected and analyzed using sector field inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (SF-ICP-MS). The activities of 239+240Pu in surface sediments ranged from 0.012 to 0.451 mBq/g (mean: 0.171 ± 0.138 mBq/g, n = 36), indicating a decreasing trend in a counterclockwise direction from the southern bay mouth. The counterclockwise decreasing trend in the south of the bay mouth is similar to the current in the Beibu Gulf. The 240Pu/239Pu atom ratios in surface sediments ranged from 0.156 to 0.283 (mean: 0.236 ± 0.031, n = 36), slightly higher than that of the global fallout value of 0.18. This suggests that the Pu in the Beibu Gulf was a combination of global fallout and Pacific Proving Ground (PPG). The average contribution of the plutonium (Pu) derived from the PPG in the sediment was estimated to be 52 % ± 24 %.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Jing Guan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Hua He
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Kai-di Fan
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Shen-Zhen Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Zi-Chen Guo
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Hui-Juan Wang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Liang-Jia Cui
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Wu Chen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Chun-Ping Huang
- Guangxi Key Laboratory for Relativistic Astrophysics, School of Physical Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Zhi-Yong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Xian-Wen He
- Radiation-Environment Management and Monitoring Station of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi, Nanning 530222, China
| | - Kai-Xing Guo
- Radiation-Environment Management and Monitoring Station of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi, Nanning 530222, China
| | - Jia-Jia Zhang
- Radiation-Environment Management and Monitoring Station of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi, Nanning 530222, China
| | - Ze-Yue Xu
- Radiation-Environment Management and Monitoring Station of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Guangxi, Nanning 530222, China
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Yamada M. No long-term variation of 240Pu/ 239Pu atom ratio in liver of Japanese common squid (Todarodes pacificus) collected from seven sea areas around Japan during 2003-2018. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115347. [PMID: 37517247 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115347] [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: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
The 239+240Pu concentrations and 240Pu/239Pu atom ratios were determined to trace the temporal variability in concentration and atom ratio in liver of the Japanese common squid during 2003-2018. The differences in their concentrations and atom ratios and the dependency on the collection areas and migratory history were compared. The organ affinity of Pu in mantle, limb, liver, and internal organs except liver was also investigated. The average 239+240Pu concentrations were the highest in liver followed in order by internal organs except liver, limb, and mantle. The Pu accumulation in liver could be explained by a mechanism for foreign substance processing. A significant difference in the average 239+240Pu concentrations in liver was found among the sea areas for specimen collection during 2003-2018. In spite of a noticeable difference in the average 239+240Pu concentrations, the 240Pu/239Pu atom ratios showed no significant temporal variability around Japan; thus, they were continuously uniform during 2003-2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Yamada
- Central Laboratory, Marine Ecology Research Institute, 300 Iwawada, Onjuku, Isumi, Chiba 299-5105, Japan.
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Xiong K, Bu W, Ni Y, Liu X, Zheng J, Aono T, Yang C, Hu S. Rapid monitoring of 241Am in small amount of sediment samples by combining extraction chromatography for highly efficient separation of interfering and matrix elements and ICP-MS/MS measurement. Microchem J 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2023.108581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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Kintsu H, Kodama K, Horiguchi T. Spatial distributions of and species differences in 90Sr accumulation in marine fishes from the Fukushima coastal region. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2023; 256:107055. [PMID: 36356465 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2022.107055] [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: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Large amounts of radionuclides were released into the ocean during the Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) accident. One of the released radionuclides, 90Sr, tends to accumulate in bone, and could conceivably have long-term negative impacts on fishes. Here, we investigated 90Sr radioactivity concentrations in the vertebrae of demersal fishes collected off the coast of Fukushima Prefecture in January and July 2014. High 90Sr radioactivity concentrations were detected in fish collected from central Fukushima (offshore of the FDNPP) and southern Fukushima (offshore of Iwaki City), but were almost hardly detected in northern Fukushima (offshore of Soma City). Additionally, 90Sr radioactivity concentrations were higher among rays (Okamejei kenojei and Hemitrygon akajei: from 1.1 ± 0.5 to 103.3 ± 15.1 mBq/g Ca) and soles (Cynoglossus joyneri and Paraplagusia japonica: from 18.5 ± 2.8 to 52.8 ± 11.3 mBq/g Ca) than among other species. Vertebral stable Sr/Ca ratios also differed by fish species. Ca concentrations were relatively constant among species, but Sr concentrations were higher among elasmobranchs and soles, indicating that differences in Sr/Ca might be related to differences in 90Sr accumulation in fish vertebrae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroyuki Kintsu
- Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Keita Kodama
- Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan
| | - Toshihiro Horiguchi
- Health and Environmental Risk Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, 16-2 Onogawa, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-8506, Japan.
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Feng D, Ji M, Liao H, Yang F, Zhou X, Pan T, Lu C, Luo J, Miao Y. An overview of plutonium isotopes in soils, China: Distribution, spatial patterns, and sources. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 216:114677. [PMID: 36374654 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114677] [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: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Plutonium (Pu) is an anthropogenic radionuclide which has drawn significant attentions due to its radiotoxicity, and the sources of plutonium linked with nuclear accidents and contaminations. The 240Pu/239Pu atom ratio is source dependent and can be used as a fingerprint to determine the sources of radioactive contaminant. However, the distribution and sources of plutonium in soils of China have not yet been systematically studied at a national scale up to date. The distribution, spatial patterns, and sources of plutonium in soils of China were discussed in this work. The concentrations of 239,240Pu are in the range of 0.002-4.824 mBq/g with a large variation, and the 239,240Pu concentrations in surface soils increase with the increasing latitude, which affects by multi-factors such as organic matter and particle size, etc. The inventories of 239,240Pu are in the range of 7.31-554 Bq/m2. The weighted average of 240Pu/239Pu atom ratios (0.180 ± 0.004) in all surface samples is good agreement with the ratio of global fallout (0.180 ± 0.014) of the nuclear weapons tests, this indicate that the major source of plutonium in China is global fallout. However, among some sites, distinctly lower 240Pu/239Pu atom ratio compared to the global fallout values were observed in the northwest China, indicating a significant contribution from other source besides the global fallout. Furthermore, the spatial clustering patterns of hot spots (high values) and cold spots (low values) for plutonium showing the clear associations with nuclear tests, especially the Chinese Lop Nor nuclear weapons tests (CNTs) and the Semipalatinsk nuclear weapons tests (STS). Radioactive material including plutonium from the STS or CNTs was transported by the prevailing westerlies to the northwest China. This review about the fingerprints and distribution of plutonium in soils of China will help researchers to establish a reference database for future radiation risk assessment and environmental radioactive management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxia Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Meichen Ji
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Haiqing Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China.
| | - Fang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Xingxuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Ting Pan
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Chaojun Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Jingtian Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Yunge Miao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
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Wu J, Zheng X, Chen J, Yang G, Zheng J, Aono T. Distributions and impacts of plutonium in the environment originating from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident: An overview of a decade of studies. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2022; 248:106884. [PMID: 35398758 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2022.106884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 03/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This paper reviews the current knowledge on plutonium (Pu) isotopic composition (the atom or activity ratios) and activity concentrations of 238Pu, 239Pu, 240Pu, and 241Pu resulting from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (FDNPP) accident in 2011. In this critical review, we document the characteristic values of Pu atom or activity ratios (fingerprints) and present their spatial distributions around the FDNPP site. Based on multiple Pu fingerprints (238Pu/239+240Pu activity ratio, 240Pu/239Pu atom ratio, and 241Pu/239Pu atom ratio), we clarify that Pu contamination from the FDNPP accident occurred in a restricted terrestrial area, while Pu in the Northwest Pacific Ocean is still predominately sourced from the Pacific Proving Grounds (PPG) and global fallout. Using a simple two end-member mixing model, we calculate average contributions of Pu from the FDNPP accident of 13 ± 20% (n = 180) in soil samples, 55 ± 32% (n = 38) in leaf litter samples, and 67 ± 26% (n = 129) in air dust/black substances. In the marine environment, the PPG source average contributions are 45 ± 15% (n = 76) in seawater and 42 ± 12% (n = 48) in sediments. The spatial distributions of Pu atom or activity ratios based on existing studies suggest that: 1) in the terrestrial region investigated 80 km northwest of the FDNPP site, the Pu contamination is mainly observed in an area within a 50 km distance, and 2) in the terrestrial region investigated 60 km southwest of the FDNPP site, the Pu contamination is mainly observed in an area within a 30 km distance. Studies of Cs-bearing radioactive particles indicate that Pu occurs as Pu oxide, and the fuel fragments containing Pu that were released from the reactors to the surrounding environment are associated with micron-scale Cs-bearing radioactive particles. We note that the fractionation between Pu and other radionuclides occurred after release. These new findings about the Pu fingerprints around the FDNPP site will help researchers to establish a reference background database for future environmental risk assessment and geochemical study there.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junwen Wu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention & Institute of Marine Sciences, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China; Southern Marine Science and Engineering Guangdong Laboratory, Guangzhou, 511458, China
| | - Xuemin Zheng
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention & Institute of Marine Sciences, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Jisheng Chen
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Disaster Prediction and Prevention & Institute of Marine Sciences, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063, China
| | - Guosheng Yang
- National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
| | - Jian Zheng
- National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan.
| | - Tatsuo Aono
- National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology, 4-9-1 Anagawa, Inage, Chiba, 263-8555, Japan
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Yamada M, Oikawa S. 239Pu, 240Pu, 241Pu, 241Am, 137Cs, and 210Pb in seafloor sediments in the western North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan: distributions, sources and budgets. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-022-08332-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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10
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Zhang M, Qiao J, Zhang W, Zhu L, Hou X. Plutonium isotopes in the northwestern South China Sea: Level, distribution, source and deposition. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 298:118846. [PMID: 35032601 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.118846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The spatial distribution of plutonium isotopes (239Pu, 240Pu) in the surface sediments collected from the northwestern South China Sea (SCS) in 2018 was investigated. The 239,240Pu concentrations in surface sediments vary from 0.048 to 0.960 mBq/g (with mean of 0.282 ± 0.242 mBq/g) depending on the geographical feature of the sampling location such as the river estuary, continental shelf, slope and deep basin. Higher 240Pu/239Pu atomic ratios (0.24-0.31) in the surface sediment of the SCS compared to the global fallout value of 0.18 were observed, this is attributed to the input of close-in fallout of the Pacific Proving Ground (PPG) transported by the North Equatorial Current and Kuroshio Current to the northern SCS. The contribution of the PPG derived plutonium in the SCS sediment was estimated to be 39%-78% using a simple two-end member mixing model based on the measured 240Pu/239Pu atomic ratios in the sediment. Besides the soluble 239,240Pu level in seawater, load of suspended particulate matter from the river runoff and biological debris, hydrographic and hydrodynamic conditions are key parameters influencing the deposition process of plutonium to the sediment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengting Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Loess and Quaternary Geology, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Technology and Application, Xi'an AMS Center, Institute of Earth Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710061, PR China; Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Risø Campus, Roskilde, 4000, Denmark; Xi'an Institute for Innovative Earth Environment Research, Xi'an, 710061, PR China
| | - Jixin Qiao
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Risø Campus, Roskilde, 4000, Denmark
| | - Weichao Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Loess and Quaternary Geology, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Technology and Application, Xi'an AMS Center, Institute of Earth Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710061, PR China; Northwest Institute of Nuclear Technology, Xi'an, 710024, PR China
| | - Liuchao Zhu
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Risø Campus, Roskilde, 4000, Denmark
| | - Xiaolin Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Loess and Quaternary Geology, Shaanxi Key Laboratory of Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Technology and Application, Xi'an AMS Center, Institute of Earth Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an, 710061, PR China; Department of Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Risø Campus, Roskilde, 4000, Denmark; Open Studio for Oceanic-Continental Climate and Environment Changes, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266061, PR China.
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11
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Ouyang J, Shao Y, Luo M, Zhang J, Dai X, Ma L, Xu D. Exploration of the potential application of plutonium isotopes in source identification of sandstorm in the atmosphere of Beijing. CHINESE CHEM LETT 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cclet.2022.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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12
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Lin W, Mo M, Yu K, Du J, Shen H, Wang Y, He X, Feng L. Establishing historical 90Sr activity in seawater of the China seas from 1963 to 2018. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 176:113476. [PMID: 35240458 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Historical 90Sr activity in seawater was established in the China seas from 1963 to 2018. Based on the exponential decrease in 90Sr activity in seawater, the effective half-life (EHL) of 90Sr was quantified to be 11.5 ± 1.6 a, 16.5 ± 2.4 a, 27.2 ± 6.2 a, and 26.7 ± 4.3 a in the Bohai Sea, Yellow Sea, East China Sea, and South China Sea, respectively. We found contrasting patterns in the EHL of 90Sr and 137Cs in the marginal seas and open oceans that were closely related to the subtly different pathways of 90Sr and 137Cs in marine environment. Additionally, we demonstrated that Fukushima-derived 90Sr (<0.01 Bq/m3) would be difficult to identify in the China seas. Our study not only provided the key parameter of the EHL in marine models for predicting the 90Sr activity in the China seas in the post-Fukushima era but also enhanced our understanding of 90Sr behavior and its fate in marine environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wuhui Lin
- School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Nuclear Technology, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, China.
| | - Minting Mo
- School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Kefu Yu
- School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Nanning 530004, China.
| | - Jinqiu Du
- National Marine Environmental Monitoring Center, Dalian 116023, China
| | - Hongtao Shen
- Guangxi Key Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Nuclear Technology, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin 541004, China
| | - Yinghui Wang
- School of Marine Sciences, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China; Guangxi Laboratory on the study of Coral Reefs in the South China Sea, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Xianwen He
- Radiation-Environment Management and Monitoring Station of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning 530222, China
| | - Liangliang Feng
- Radiation-Environment Management and Monitoring Station of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Nanning 530222, China
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13
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Otosaka S, Kamidaira Y, Ikenoue T, Kawamura H. Distribution, dynamics, and fate of radiocesium derived from FDNPP accident in the ocean. J NUCL SCI TECHNOL 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/00223131.2021.1994480] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shigeyoshi Otosaka
- Atmosphere and Ocean Research Institute, The University of Tokyo, Kashiwa, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yuki Kamidaira
- Research Group for Environmental Science, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Tsubasa Ikenoue
- Research Group for Environmental Science, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Kawamura
- Research Group for Environmental Science, Japan Atomic Energy Agency, Ibaraki, Japan
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Han X, Zhu J, Zhu Y, Li G, Liu Z. 237Np and 241Am as Fingerprints in the Major River Basins of Southern China and North South China Sea: A Land-Sea Perspective. ACS OMEGA 2021; 6:26897-26909. [PMID: 34693111 PMCID: PMC8529606 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c03152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
During the global nuclear weapon tests, large amounts of radioactive elements are released into the environment. Long-period actinide elements such as Np, Pu, and Am exhibit different behaviors in various environments, and their isotope characteristic fingerprints are of great significance for studying the distribution, migration, and prediction of radioactive pollutants. To investigate the distribution of 241Am and 237Np in southern China, activities of 241Am (0.008 ± 0.012-0.932 ± 0.066 Bq/kg) and 237Np (0.037 ± 0.003-1.458 ± 0.063 mBq/kg), 237Np/239Pu atom ratios (0.055 ± 0.003-0.864 ± 0.054), and 241Am/239+240Pu activity ratios (0.033 ± 0.075-15.870 ± 0.477) in 95 surface sediment samples collected from the northern South China Sea and major river basins were analyzed for the first time. Due to the different scavenging mechanisms of Am and Pu, 241Am is preferentially concentrated by sinking the particulate, while plutonium is scavenged in the coastal area, resulting in a higher 241Am/239+240Pu activity ratio in estuary and coastal areas. The distribution of 237Np shows obvious spatial inhomogeneity as the high migration rate. The relevant fingerprint characteristic has changed greatly and needs to be updated urgently. As a result of the convergence of land and sea, 241Am, 239,240Pu, and 237Np are dominated by terrestrial sediments and deposited in the coastal area of southern China, which should be paid more attention to. This work can establish China's current neptunium radioactivity database, and the difference in Np, Pu, and Am scavenging processes may be a powerful tool for evaluating the impact of the Pearl River Estuary salt tide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Han
- State
Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological
and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation
Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jianjun Zhu
- Department
of Emergency and Critical Care Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China
| | - Yawei Zhu
- State
Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological
and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation
Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Gang Li
- State
Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological
and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation
Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
- Key
Laboratory of Ocean and Marginal Sea Geology, South China Sea Institute of Oceanology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510300, China
| | - Zhiyong Liu
- State
Key Laboratory of Radiation Medicine and Protection, School for Radiological
and Interdisciplinary Sciences (RAD-X) and Collaborative Innovation
Centre of Radiation Medicine of Jiangsu Higher Education Institutions, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
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