Size distribution of radionuclides in nuclear fuel reprocessing liquids after mixing with seawater

Radionuclides released to the environment following nuclear events

“…Radioactive particles have also been released under conditions of lower pressures and more normal temperatures, such as atmospheric emissions during normal operations (Windscale, UK, early 1950s) or in effluents discharged from nuclear installations (Sellafield, UK; La Hague, France). Radioactive particles have been observed in Kara Sea, Russia, sediments in the vicinity of dumped waste containers that have leaked due to corrosion (e.g., Salbu et al 1993; JRNEG 1997; Salbu et al 1998; Salbu et al 2003).…”

Speciation of radionuclides – analytical challenges within environmental impact and risk assessments

“…It is also well established that a certain fraction of radionuclides released in effluents from reactors and reprocessing plants (Sellafield, UK; Dounreay, UK; La Hague, France; Mayak PA, Russia) is present as particles and colloidal materials (e.g. Salbu et al, 1993). Radioactive particles have also been identified in the fjords of Novaya Zemlya in close proximity to dumped radioactive waste.…”

Fractionation of radionuclide species in the environment

“…Based on mass balance calculations, these effects can be accounted for. The HF and TCF systems have been utilised from mid-1990s for fractionation of radionuclides associated with colloidal material in effluents from nuclear installations, in ground waters, lakes, rivers as well as sea waters (e.g., Salbu et al, 1993;Leonard et al, 1994;Lind et al, 2006).…”