The Transport of Plutonium in Terrestrial Ecosystems

Abstract

Data from several field studies of plutonium were evaluated to identify environmental factors that result in redistribution of this element within ecosystems.When released to terrestrial ecosystems, plutonium is almost quantitively transferred to and retained by soils. Thus, processes which transport soil within ecosystems predominate in the transport of environmental plutonium.Erosion of soils by wind and water is the principal means of translational movement of plutonium within terrestrial ecosystems. Soil erosion processes also dominate in the transport of soil plutonium to biological surfaces particularly in arid and semi-arid regions of the US.Understanding the relationships between soil erosional processes and plutonium transport within ecosystems is essential for prediction of plutonium fate and effects.

Radionuclides, Heavy Metals, and Polychlorinated Biphenyls in Soils Collected Around the Perimeter of Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Area G during 2006

“…A soil sampling program is the most direct means of estimating the types, concentrations, and distribution of radionuclides in the environment within and around nuclear facilities (Fresquez et al, 1996). Subsequently, the knowledge gained from the radiological surveillance of soil is critical to provide information about potential exposure by way of several pathways that include soil ingestion, consumption of food crops, resuspension of radionuclides into the air, and contamination of groundwater (Hakonson et al, 1981). The uptake of radionuclides by vegetation may also give some insight into surface (Hansen et al, 1980) and subsurface (Wenzel et al, 1987) pathways of contaminants to receptors from waste disposal areas.…”

An assessment of plutonium and americium distribution in the lower Rhone Valley environment (France)

“…Due to their specific chemical properties, in natural conditions, Pu and Am elements are mainly associated to mineral compartments [6,7,9]. Their actual spatial distribution in the terrestrial environment can then be estimated examining soil activities.…”

Radionuclide Concentrations in Soils and Vegetation at Low-Level Radioactive Waste Disposal Area G During the 1999 Growing Season

“…Exposure to radionuclides by these pathways may result in radiation doses to humans (Hakonson et al, 1981). The uptake of radionuclides by vegetation may also give some insight into surface (Hansen et al, 1980) and subsurface (Wenzel et al, 1987) (Rickard and Kirby, 1987).…”