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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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Palencia P, Luis Guerrero J, Millán R, Mosqueda F, Pedro Bolívar J. Utilization of phosphogypsum and red mud in alfalfa cultivation. Heliyon 2024; 10:e28751. [PMID: 38586365 PMCID: PMC10998199 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e28751] [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: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024] Open
Abstract
In this work, the utilization of phosphogypsum (PG), a waste coming from the manufacture of phosphate fertilizers, as fertilizer for alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) crops was investigated using pot experiments. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of both phosphogypsum and red mud (RM) in two soils representative of the pasture production area in Southern Spain. The morpho-physiological parameters of biomass, plant height, number of stems and number of leaves, as well as the chemical parameters of soil content, were measured. High doses of PG inhibited seed germination in some treatments. In addition, the treatment substrate (2550 g soil + 50 g kg-1 PG + 100 g kg-1 RM) also affected seed germination, possibly due to the large amount of RM. The application of PG and RM to the soil increased the availability of important nutrients for alfalfa, such as phosphorus (P), calcium (Ca2+) and magnesium (Mg2+). The results demonstrate that the treatment with PG significantly improved the uptake of P in alfalfa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Palencia
- Department of Organisms and System Biology, Polytechnic School of Mieres, Oviedo University, Mieres, 33600, Asturias, Spain
| | - José Luis Guerrero
- Valorization of Waste and Environmental Radioactivity Unit, Center for Natural Resources, Health and Environment (RENSMA), University of Huelva, Campus El carmen s/n, 21007, Huelva, Spain
- Department of Biology and Geology, Physics and Inorganic Chemistry, Higher School of Experimental Sciences and Technology, Rey Juan Carlos University, c/Tulipán s/n, 28933, Móstoles, Spain
| | - Rebeca Millán
- Valorization of Waste and Environmental Radioactivity Unit, Center for Natural Resources, Health and Environment (RENSMA), University of Huelva, Campus El carmen s/n, 21007, Huelva, Spain
| | - Fernando Mosqueda
- Valorization of Waste and Environmental Radioactivity Unit, Center for Natural Resources, Health and Environment (RENSMA), University of Huelva, Campus El carmen s/n, 21007, Huelva, Spain
| | - Juan Pedro Bolívar
- Valorization of Waste and Environmental Radioactivity Unit, Center for Natural Resources, Health and Environment (RENSMA), University of Huelva, Campus El carmen s/n, 21007, Huelva, Spain
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MacIntosh A, Oldfield DT, Cendón DI, Langendam AD, Howell N, Howard DL, Cresswell T. Naturally occurring radioactive materials in offshore infrastructure: Understanding formation and characteristics of baryte scale during decommissioning planning. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133506. [PMID: 38237435 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/06/2024] [Accepted: 01/09/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Contaminants, including naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) of the 238-uranium and 232-thorium decay series, have been recognized as a global research priority to inform offshore petroleum infrastructure decommissioning decisions. This study aimed to characterize pipeline scale retrieved from a decommissioned subsea well tubular pipe through high-resolution elemental mapping and isotopic analysis. This was achieved by utilizing transmission electron microscopy, Synchrotron x-ray fluorescence, photostimulated luminescence autoradiography and Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry. The scale was identified as baryte (BaSO4) forming a dense crystalline matrix, with heterogenous texture and elongated crystals. The changing chemical and physical microenvironment within the pipe influenced the gradual growth rate of baryte over the production life of this infrastructure. A distinct compositional banding of baryte and celestine (SrSO4) bands was observed. Radioactivity attributed by the presence of radionuclides (226Ra, 228Ra) throughout the scale was strongly correlated with baryte. From the detailed scale characterization, we can infer the baryte scale gradually formed within the internals of the tubular well pipe along the duration of production (i.e., 17 years). This new knowledge and insight into the characteristics and formation of petroleum waste products will assist with decommissioning planning to mitigate potential radiological risks to marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy MacIntosh
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Lucas Heights, Locked Bag 2001, NSW, 2232, Australia; School of Natural Sciences, Wallumattagal Campus, Macquarie University, Ryde, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Daniel T Oldfield
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Lucas Heights, Locked Bag 2001, NSW, 2232, Australia
| | - Dioni I Cendón
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Lucas Heights, Locked Bag 2001, NSW, 2232, Australia; School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, UNSW Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | | | - Nicholas Howell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Lucas Heights, Locked Bag 2001, NSW, 2232, Australia
| | | | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Lucas Heights, Locked Bag 2001, NSW, 2232, Australia
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4
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von Hellfeld R, Hastings A. An approach to assessing subsea pipeline-associated mercury release into the North Sea and its potential environmental and human health impact. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2024; 11:230943. [PMID: 38481980 PMCID: PMC10935551 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.230943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Mercury is a naturally occurring heavy metal that has also been associated with anthropogenic sources such as cement production or hydrocarbon extraction. Mercury is a contaminant of concern as it can have a significant negative impact on organismal health when ingested. In aquatic environments, it bioaccumulates up the foodweb, where it then has the potential to impact human health. With the offshore hydrocarbon platforms in the North Sea nearing decommissioning, they must be assessed as a potential source for the environmental release of mercury. International treaties govern the handling of materials placed in the ocean. Studies have assessed the ecologic and economic benefits of (partial) in situ abandonment of the infrastructure as artificial reefs. This can be applied to pipelines after substantial cleaning to remove mercury accumulation from the inner surface. This work outlines the application of an approach to modelling marine mercury bioaccumulation for decommissioning scenarios in the North Sea. Here, in situ decommissioning of cleaned pipelines was unlikely to have a negative impact on the North Sea food web or human health. However, significant knowledge gaps have been determined, which must be addressed before all negative impacts on ecosystems and organismal health can be excluded.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca von Hellfeld
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, 23 St Machar Drive, AberdeenAB24 3UL, UK
- National Decommissioning Centre, Main Street, NewburghAB41 6AA, UK
| | - Astley Hastings
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, 23 St Machar Drive, AberdeenAB24 3UL, UK
- National Decommissioning Centre, Main Street, NewburghAB41 6AA, UK
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5
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MacIntosh A, Dafforn K, Penrose B, Chariton A, Cresswell T. Assessing the ecological impacts of NORM-contaminated scale on marine infauna using sediment microcosms. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 340:139939. [PMID: 37625489 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.139939] [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: 04/28/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs) can be found in decommissioned oil and gas infrastructure (e.g. pipelines), including scales. The effects of NORM contaminants from offshore infrastructure on benthic macroorganisms remain poorly understood. To test the potential ecological effects of NORM-contaminated scale, we exposed a marine amphipod, a clam and a polychaete to marine sediments spiked with low level concentrations of barium sulfate scale retrieved from a decommissioned subsea pipe. Only amphipods were included in further analysis due to treatment mortalities of the clam and polychaete. Barium (Ba) and copper (Cu) were elevated in the seawater overlying the spiked sediments, although no sediment metals exceeded guidelines. 210Po was the only NORM detected in the overlying waters while both 210Po and 226Ra were significantly elevated in the scale-contaminated sediments when compared with the control sediments. The whole-body burden of Ba and 226Ra were significantly higher in the scale-exposed amphipods. Using experiment- and scale-specific parameters in biota dose assessments suggested potential dose rates may elicit individual and population level effects. Future work is needed to assess the biological impacts and effects of NORM scale at elevated levels above background concentrations and the accumulation of NORM-associated contaminants by marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy MacIntosh
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Lucas Heights, Locked Bag 2001, NSW, 2232, Australia; School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Katherine Dafforn
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Beth Penrose
- Charles Darwin University (CDU), Research Institute of Northern Agriculture and Drought Resilience (RINA), Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, 0810, NT, Australia
| | - Anthony Chariton
- School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO), Lucas Heights, Locked Bag 2001, NSW, 2232, Australia
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6
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Hook SE, Foster S, Althaus F, Bearham D, Angel BM, Revill AT, Simpson SL, Strzelecki J, Cresswell T, Hayes KR. The distribution of metal and petroleum-derived contaminants within sediments around oil and gas infrastructure in the Gippsland Basin, Australia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115196. [PMID: 37421917 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
As oil and gas infrastructure comes to the end of its working life, a decommissioning decision must be made: should the infrastructure be abandoned in situ, repurposed, partially removed, or fully removed? Environmental contaminants around oil and gas infrastructure could influence these decisions because contaminants in sediments could degrade the value of the infrastructure as habitat, enter the seafood supply if the area is re-opened for commercial and/or recreational fishing, or be made biologically available as sediment is resuspended when the structures are moved. An initial risk hypothesis, however, may postulate that these concerns are only relevant if contaminant concentrations are above screening values that predict the possibility of environmental harm or contaminant bioaccumulation. To determine whether a substantive contaminants-based risk assessment is needed for infrastructure in the Gippsland Basin (South-eastern Australia), we measured the concentration of metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in benthic sediments collected around eight platforms earmarked for decommissioning. The measurements were compared to preset screening values and to background contaminant concentrations in reference sites. Lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), PAHs and other contaminants were occasionally measured at concentrations that exceeded reference values, most often within 150 m of the platforms. The exceedance of a few screening values by contaminants at some platforms indicates that these platforms require further analysis to determine the contaminant risks associated with any decommissioning option.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Brad M Angel
- CSIRO Environment, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
| | | | | | | | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
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7
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Watson SM, McLean DL, Balcom BJ, Birchenough SNR, Brand AM, Camprasse ECM, Claisse JT, Coolen JWP, Cresswell T, Fokkema B, Gourvenec S, Henry LA, Hewitt CL, Love MS, MacIntosh AE, Marnane M, McKinley E, Micallef S, Morgan D, Nicolette J, Ounanian K, Patterson J, Seath K, Selman AGL, Suthers IM, Todd VLG, Tung A, Macreadie PI. Offshore decommissioning horizon scan: Research priorities to support decision-making activities for oil and gas infrastructure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 878:163015. [PMID: 36965737 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Thousands of oil and gas structures have been installed in the world's oceans over the past 70 years to meet the population's reliance on hydrocarbons. Over the last decade, there has been increased concern over how to handle decommissioning of this infrastructure when it reaches the end of its operational life. Complete or partial removal may or may not present the best option when considering potential impacts on the environment, society, technical feasibility, economy, and future asset liability. Re-purposing of offshore structures may also be a valid legal option under international maritime law where robust evidence exists to support this option. Given the complex nature of decommissioning offshore infrastructure, a global horizon scan was undertaken, eliciting input from an interdisciplinary cohort of 35 global experts to develop the top ten priority research needs to further inform decommissioning decisions and advance our understanding of their potential impacts. The highest research priorities included: (1) an assessment of impacts of contaminants and their acceptable environmental limits to reduce potential for ecological harm; (2) defining risk and acceptability thresholds in policy/governance; (3) characterising liability issues of ongoing costs and responsibility; and (4) quantification of impacts to ecosystem services. The remaining top ten priorities included: (5) quantifying ecological connectivity; (6) assessing marine life productivity; (7) determining feasibility of infrastructure re-use; (8) identification of stakeholder views and values; (9) quantification of greenhouse gas emissions; and (10) developing a transdisciplinary decommissioning decision-making process. Addressing these priorities will help inform policy development and governance frameworks to provide industry and stakeholders with a clearer path forward for offshore decommissioning. The principles and framework developed in this paper are equally applicable for informing responsible decommissioning of offshore renewable energy infrastructure, in particular wind turbines, a field that is accelerating rapidly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah M Watson
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Dianne L McLean
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia; Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6009, Australia.
| | | | - Silvana N R Birchenough
- The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), Lowestoft NR33 0HT, United Kingdom
| | - Alison M Brand
- Manta Environmental Limited, Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Elodie C M Camprasse
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
| | - Jeremy T Claisse
- California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA 91786, USA; Vantuna Research Group, Occidental College, Los Angeles, CA 90041, USA
| | | | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, New Illawarra Road, Lucas Heights, New South Wales 2234, Australia
| | - Bert Fokkema
- Shell Global Solutions International B.V., 2596HR The Hague, the Netherlands
| | - Susan Gourvenec
- Centre of Excellence for Intelligent & Resilient Ocean Engineering, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 7QF, UK
| | - Lea-Anne Henry
- School of GeoSciences, University of Edinburgh, King's Buildings Campus, James Hutton Road, EH9 3FE Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Chad L Hewitt
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia 6150, Australia; Lincoln University, Lincoln, New Zealand
| | - Milton S Love
- Marine Science Institute, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA 93016, USA
| | - Amy E MacIntosh
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, New Illawarra Road, Lucas Heights, New South Wales 2234, Australia; School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia
| | - Michael Marnane
- Chevron Energy Technology Pty Ltd, 250 St Georges Terrace, Perth, Western Australia 6000, Australia
| | - Emma McKinley
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom
| | - Shannon Micallef
- Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, Australia
| | - Deborah Morgan
- Xodus Group, Xodus House, Huntly Street, Aberdeen AB10 1RS, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Joseph Nicolette
- Montrose Environmental Solutions Inc., Northridge Road, Sandy Springs, GA 30350, USA
| | - Kristen Ounanian
- Centre for Blue Governance, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | | | - Karen Seath
- Society for Underwater Technology, International Salvage & Decommissioning Committee, UK; Karen Seath Solutions, Anstruther, Scotland, UK
| | - Allison G L Selman
- Asset Lifecycle Manager, Atteris Pty Ltd, Perth, Western Australia 6000, Australia
| | - Iain M Suthers
- School of Biological, Earth & Environmental Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales 2052, Australia
| | - Victoria L G Todd
- Ocean Science Consulting Ltd., Spott Road, Dunbar, East Lothian EH42 1RR, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Aaron Tung
- University of Aberdeen, School of Law, Aberdeen, UK; Curtin Institute for Energy Transition, Technology Park, Bentley, Western Australia 6102, Australia; Woodside Energy, Mia Yellagonga, 11 Mount Street, Perth, Western Australia 6000, Australia
| | - Peter I Macreadie
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Burwood, VIC 3125, Australia
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von Hellfeld R, Gade C, Koppel DJ, Walters WJ, Kho F, Hastings A. An approach to assess potential environmental mercury release, food web bioaccumulation, and human dietary methylmercury uptake from decommissioning offshore oil and gas infrastructure. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 452:131298. [PMID: 36996541 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Subsea pipelines carrying well fluids from hydrocarbon fields accumulate mercury. If the pipelines (after cleaning and flushing) are abandoned in situ, their degradation may release residual mercury into the environment. To justify pipeline abandonment, decommissioning plans include environmental risk assessments to determine the potential risk of environmental mercury. These risks are informed by environmental quality guideline values (EQGVs) governing concentrations in sediment or water above which mercury toxicity may occur. However, these guidelines may not consider e.g., the bioaccumulation potential of methylated mercury. Therefore, EQGVs may not protect humans from exposure if applied as the sole basis for risk assessments. This paper outlines a process to assess the EQGVs' protectiveness from mercury bioaccumulation, providing preliminary insights to questions including how to (1) determine pipeline threshold concentrations, (2) model marine mercury bioaccumulation, and (3) determine exceedance of the methylmercury tolerable weekly intake (TWI) for humans. The approach is demonstrated with a generic example using simplifications to describe mercury behaviour and a model food web. In this example, release scenarios equivalent to the EQGVs resulted in increased marine organism mercury tissue concentrations by 0-33 %, with human dietary methylmercury intake increasing 0-21 %. This suggests that existing guidelines may not be protective of biomagnification in all circumstances. The outlined approach could inform environmental risk assessments for asset-specific release scenarios but must be parameterised to reflect local environmental conditions when tailored to local factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca von Hellfeld
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, School of Biological Sciences, Aberdeen, UK; National Decommissioning Centre, Ellon, UK.
| | - Christoph Gade
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, School of Biological Sciences, Aberdeen, UK; National Decommissioning Centre, Ellon, UK
| | - Darren J Koppel
- Curtin Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Australian Institute of Marine Science, Perth, Australia
| | - William J Walters
- Ken and Mary Alice Lindquist Department of Nuclear Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, PA, USA
| | - Fenny Kho
- Curtin Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Curtin Corrosion Centre, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Astley Hastings
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, School of Biological Sciences, Aberdeen, UK; National Decommissioning Centre, Ellon, UK
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9
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Al-Shboul KF, Al-Ajlony AMBA, Al-Malkawi GH. Modeling and experimental assessment of naturally occurring radionuclides' transfer factors of orange fruits. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2023; 262:107149. [PMID: 36906962 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2023.107149] [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: 12/26/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The soil-to-orange fruit transfer factor of naturally occurring radionuclides was investigated. The temporal evolution of the three identified radionuclides, Ra-226, Th-232, and K-40, concentration was also examined throughout the growth period of the orange fruits until they reached maturity. A mathematical model was developed to predict the soil-to-fruit transfer of these radionuclides during the development of orange fruits. The results were found to agree with the experimental data. The experimental and modeling results revealed that the transfer factor for all radionuclides showed a similar exponential decline with the growth of the fruit and reached its minimum value when the fruit was ripe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled F Al-Shboul
- Nuclear Engineering Department, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Jordan.
| | | | - Ghadeer H Al-Malkawi
- Nuclear Engineering Department, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Jordan
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10
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Lopes AG, Da Silva FCA, Lopes RT. Radiological assessment of the disposal of bulk oil NORM waste: Case study from Brazil. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2023; 261:107139. [PMID: 36842336 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2023.107139] [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: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The oil and gas industries are the largest producers of NORM wastes that are continuously generated during production and extraction activities. In addition, an increasing trend is observed in waste production worldwide due to the decommissioning of oil platforms. The problem is that most of these wastes are in activity concentration levels above the exemption and the clearance limits and are being accumulated in storage sites because no repositories exist in Brazil for NORM wastes generated by oil industries. There are regulations for radioactive wastes and for the licensing of repositories for managing wastes with low and intermediate levels of radiation but the current regulations apply only to packaged wastes. Therefore an initial radiological assessment was carried out with the RESRAD-OFFSITE code to show that bulk NORM wastes (not packaged wastes) could be disposed of in repositories near the surface without causing additional risk to the public above the criteria used. The results can also support decision-making by the Regulatory Authority to change the current regulations and allow for the disposal of wastes in bulk form.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda Gomes Lopes
- Nuclear Engineering Program, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro - PEN/COPPE/UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | | | - Ricardo Tadeu Lopes
- Nuclear Engineering Program, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro - PEN/COPPE/UFRJ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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11
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Koppel DJ, Cresswell T, MacIntosh A, von Hellfeld R, Hastings A, Higgins S. Threshold values for the protection of marine ecosystems from NORM in subsea oil and gas infrastructure. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2023; 258:107093. [PMID: 36621180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2022.107093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This modelling study uses the ERICA Tool and Bateman's equation to derive sediment threshold values for radiation protection of the marine environment relevant to NORM-contaminated products (radium-contaminated scales, 210Pb films and 210Po films) found in subsea oil and gas infrastructure. Threshold values are calculated as the activity concentration of the NORM-contaminated products' head of chain radionuclide (i.e., 226Ra + 228Ra, 210Pb, or 210Po) that will increase radiation dose rates in sediments by 10 μGy/h to the most exposed organism at a given release time. The minimum threshold value (corresponding to peak radiation dose rates from the ingrowth of progeny) were for radium-contaminated scales, 0.009 Bq/g of 226Ra, 0.029 Bq/g of 228Ra (in the absence of 226Ra) or 0.14 Bq/g of 228Ra (in the presence of 226Ra), followed by 0.015 Bq/g for 210Pb films, and 1.6 Bq/g for 210Po films. These may be used as default threshold values. Added activity concentrations of the NORM-contaminated products to marine sediments below these threshold values implies a low radiological risk to organisms while exceedances imply that further investigation is necessary. Using contaminated product specific parameterisations, such as Kd values derived for Ra from a BaSO4 matrix in seawater, could greatly affect threshold values. Strong consideration should be given to deriving such data as part of specific radiological risk assessments for these products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren J Koppel
- Curtin University Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Australian Institute of Marine Science, Crawley, WA, Australia.
| | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Amy MacIntosh
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia; Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Rebecca von Hellfeld
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK; National Decommissioning Centre, Ellon, Scotland, UK
| | - Astley Hastings
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK; National Decommissioning Centre, Ellon, Scotland, UK
| | - Stuart Higgins
- Curtin University Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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MacIntosh A, Koppel DJ, Johansen MP, Beresford NA, Copplestone D, Penrose B, Cresswell T. Radiological risk assessment to marine biota from exposure to NORM from a decommissioned offshore oil and gas pipeline. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2022; 251-252:106979. [PMID: 35963215 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2022.106979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Scale residues can accumulate on the interior surfaces of subsea petroleum pipes and may incorporate naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM). The persistent nature of 'NORM scale' may result in a radiological dose to the organisms living on or near intact pipelines. Following a scenario of in-situ decommissioning of a subsea pipeline, marine organisms occupying the exteriors or interiors of petroleum structures may have close contact with the scale or other NORM-associated contaminated substances and suffer subsequent radiological effects. This case study used radiological dose modelling software, including the ERICA Tool (v2.0), MicroShield® Pro and mathematical equations, to estimate the likely radiological doses and risks of effects from NORM-contaminated scale to marine biota from a decommissioned offshore oil and gas pipeline. Using activity concentrations of NORM (226Ra, 210Po, 210Pb, 228Ra, 228Th) from a subsea pipeline from Australia, environmental realistic exposure scenarios including radiological exposures from both an intact pipe (external only; accounting for radiation shielding by a cylindrical carbon steel pipe) and a decommissioned pipeline with corrosive breakthrough (resulting in both internal and external radiological exposure) were simulated to estimate doses to model marine organisms. Predicted dose rates for both the external only exposure (ranging from 26 μGy/h to 33 μGy/h) and a corroded pipeline (ranging from 300 μGy/h to 16,000 μGy/h) exceeded screening levels for radiological doses to environmental receptors. The study highlighted the importance of using scale-specific solubility data (i.e., Kd) values for individual NORM radionuclides for ERICA assessments. This study provides an approach for conducting marine organism dose assessments for NORM-contaminated subsea pipelines and highlights scientific gaps required to undertake risk assessments necessary to inform infrastructure decommissioning planning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy MacIntosh
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia; School of Natural Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
| | - Darren J Koppel
- Curtin University Oil and Gas Innovation Centre, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Mathew P Johansen
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
| | | | - David Copplestone
- Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom
| | - Beth Penrose
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
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Kho F, Koppel DJ, von Hellfeld R, Hastings A, Gissi F, Cresswell T, Higgins S. Current understanding of the ecological risk of mercury from subsea oil and gas infrastructure to marine ecosystems. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 438:129348. [PMID: 35797785 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Many oil and gas fields are nearing production cessation and will require decommissioning, with the preferred method being complete infrastructure removal in most jurisdictions. However, decommissioning in situ, leaving some disused components in place, is an option that may be agreed to by the regulators and reservoir titleholders in some circumstances. To understand this option's viability, the environmental impacts and risks of any residual contaminants assessed. Mercury, a contaminant of concern, is naturally present in hydrocarbon reservoirs, may contaminate offshore processing and transmission infrastructure, and can biomagnify in marine ecosystems. Mercury's impact is dependent on its speciation, concentration, and the exposure duration. However, research characterising and quantifying the amount of mercury in offshore infrastructure and the efficacy of decontamination is limited. This review describes the formation of mercury-contaminated products within oil and gas infrastructure, expected exposure pathways after environmental release, possible impacts, and key research gaps regarding the ecological risk of in situ decommissioned contaminated infrastructure. Suggestions are made to overcome these gaps, improving the in situ mercury quantification in infrastructure, understanding environmental controls on, and forecasting of, mercury methylation and bioaccumulation, and the cumulative impacts of multiple stressors within decommissioned infrastructures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fenny Kho
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Curtin Corrosion Centre, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Darren J Koppel
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia; Australian Institute of Marine Science, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Rebecca von Hellfeld
- National Decommissioning Centre, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK.
| | - Astley Hastings
- National Decommissioning Centre, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, Scotland, UK
| | - Francesca Gissi
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Tom Cresswell
- Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation, Lucas Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Stuart Higgins
- Faculty of Science and Engineering, Curtin University, Perth, WA, Australia
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