Source and long-term behavior of transuranic aerosols in the WIPP environment

Ṭhākura, Pratāpa; Lemons, B. G.

Source and long-term behavior of transuranic aerosols in the WIPP environment

2016

Ṭhākura, Pratāpa | Lemons, B. G.

Source and long-term behavior transuranic aerosols (²³⁹⁺²⁴⁰Pu, ²³⁸Pu, and ²⁴¹Am) in the ambient air samples collected at and near the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant (WIPP) deep geologic repository site were investigated using historical data from an independent monitoring program conducted by the Carlsbad Environmental Monitoring and Research Center and an oversight monitoring program conducted by the management and operating contractor for WIPP at and near the facility. An analysis of historical data indicates frequent detections of ²³⁹⁺²⁴⁰Pu and ²⁴¹Am, whereas ²³⁸Pu is detected infrequently. Peaks in ²³⁹⁺²⁴⁰Pu and ²⁴¹Am concentrations in ambient air generally occur from March to June timeframe, which is when strong and gusty winds in the area frequently give rise to blowing dust. Long-term measurements of plutonium isotopes (1985–2015) in the WIPP environment suggest that the resuspension of previously contaminated soils is likely the primary source of plutonium in the ambient air samples from WIPP and its vicinity. There is no evidence that WIPP is a source of environmental contamination that can be considered significant by any health-based standard.

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