The method of radiation control of water areas deep parts and bottom sediments

Abstract

The article substantiates the need to control the underwater water area and bottom sediments in marine water areas, lakes and rivers. Especially in cases where hazardous facilities are located next to them (nuclear power plants, production using radioactive components, storage facilities, etc.). For various reasons, small radioactive releases occur from these facilities. The radioactive substances fall into the water and are deposited in bottom sediments. Gradually, the expositional irradiation dose in the bottom sediment increases. Sea, lake or river inhabitants begin to get sick. It is extremely difficult to establish a high level of radiation in the bottom sediment by measuring the exposure dose over the water surface. The bottom sediments may be washed ashore during water movement or various cyclones. Further, then are dispersed by wind. This can lead to radioactive damage to people, animals and territory. The methodology for the radioactive state research of the water areas deep parts and bottom sediments using an autonomous deep-sea apparatus is presented. The apparatus is equipped with sensors for measuring the expositional irradiation dose, a video camera for monitoring the bottom, a depth sensor and an echo probe to determine its coordinates under water. The using an autonomous apparatus allows to determine the presence of radioactive contamination in bottom sediments and determine the configuration of their location. This allows to plan and effectively carry out work on the cleaning of rivers, lakes and coastal zones of the seas from radioactive bottom sediments.