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Jiao X, Dong Z, Baccolo G, Qin X, Wei T, Di J, Shao Y. Quantifying uranium radio-isotope ratios in riverine suspended particulate matter: Insights into natural and anthropogenic influences in the glacial-fed river system of the NE Tibetan Plateau. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132725. [PMID: 37813028 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/04/2023] [Indexed: 10/11/2023]
Abstract
The analysis of uranium isotope ratio 235U/238U in environmental media serves as a reliable method to distinguish between natural and anthropogenic sources of uranium, playing a crucial role in assessing the extent of contamination with anthropogenic uranium and disturbances in its biogeochemical cycle. In this study, we focus on the northeastern Tibetan Plateau to examine the atomic ratio of 235U and 238U in riverine suspended particulate matter (SPM) across eight glacial watersheds. Results reveal that the 235U/238U atomic ratio in the suspended load ranges from 0.007247 to 0.007437 (with an average value of 0.00727 ± 0.00003), which closely aligns with the ratio found in natural uranium (0.00725). The highest mean ratio (0.00729 ± 0.00007) is observed in the upper glacial basin of the Ningchan River. Results suggest the negligible influence of isotopically altered in relation to human nuclear activities. When considering different environmental media, such as soil, snow/cryoconite, and riverine suspended particulate matter in the study area, the 235U/238U ratio in surface soil presents the highest values, pointing to a slight enrichment of 235U. This may be attributed to the fact that soil retains the cumulative signals of uranium atmospheric deposition, including the deposition of 235U-enriched airborne particulate matter deposited after atmospheric nuclear tests carried out in the second half of the 20th century. On the contrary, riverine suspended particulate matter and glacial sediments are more influenced by the natural 235U/238U signature under modern environmental conditions. This confirms that the northeastern Tibetan Plateau is still relatively pristine with respect to biogeochemical disturbances related to human activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhiwen Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Giovanni Baccolo
- Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institut, Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Xiang Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Ting Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Di
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yaping Shao
- Institute for Geophysics and Meteorology, University of Cologne, Cologne D-50923, Germany
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Jiao X, Dong Z, Baccolo G, Li F, Wei T, Li J, Qin X. Insights on the distribution and environmental implications of the radio-isotope 235U in surface soils and glaciers of the Tibetan Plateau. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 317:120824. [PMID: 36493938 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120824] [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: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/04/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Atom ratio between 235U and 238U is often used as an indicator of U contamination as the isotopic signature of products generated by the nuclear and military industry significantly vary from the natural isotopic ratio of U. In this study, surface soils and glaciers samples were collected in the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and its surrounding areas and analyzed for U isotopic composition. Results show that the 235U/238U atom ratios in the surface soils of the TP ranges from 0.007122 to 0.007615, with an average value of 0.007378 ± 0.00011; while in the snow/ice dust from high-altitude glaciers it ranges from 0.007254 to 0.007687, with an average value of 0.007345 ± 0.000128. These ratios are slightly higher than the typical crustal value, indicating that the TP was affected by an anthropogenic input of 235U, especially in its northeast and southwest sectors. The variability of our results suggests that the spatial distribution of this contamination is not uniform, pointing to differences in the potential sources and transmission paths of radioactive particles. Combining the knowledge of past tests and activities conducted in the geographic areas around the TP with the knowledge of prevailing winds, we hypothesize that the observed 235U contamination in the TP surface soils and glaciers may have originated mainly from the previous nuclear related activities in surrounding areas (e.g., north Gobi Desert and South Asia). In addition, the horizontal and vertical wind field around the Tibetan Plateau, as well as the atmospheric aerosol optical thickness data also demonstrated the possible transport paths of the radionuclides, that is, originated from in northern Gobi desert and South Asia and reached the TP crossing the Himalayas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyu Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Zhiwen Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Giovanni Baccolo
- Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry, Paul Scherrer Institut, Villigen, Switzerland
| | - Fangzhou Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ting Wei
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Jing Li
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
| | - Xiang Qin
- State Key Laboratory of Cryosphere Sciences, Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China; Qilian Mountain Glacier and Ecological Environment Research Station, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Lanzhou, 730000, China
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Flett L, McLeod CL, McCarty JL, Shaulis BJ, Fain JJ, Krekeler MPS. Monitoring uranium mine pollution on Native American lands: Insights from tree bark particulate matter on the Spokane Reservation, Washington, USA. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2021; 194:110619. [PMID: 33378700 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2020.110619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 12/03/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The uranium boom in the United States from the 1940's to the 1980's was a period of extensive uranium mining on Native American lands. However, detailed environmental investigations of the resulting uranium pollution are sparse and typically ignore contributions from airborne particulate matter. The Midnite Mine is a 350-acre inactive open pit uranium mine located on the Spokane Indian Reservation in eastern Washington that operated from 1954 to 1981. Approximately 2.4 million tons of ore and 33 million tons of waste rock were left behind in stockpiles and have also been utilized as gravel on access and haul roads. Although the Midnite Mine is now a Superfund Site, and governmental investigations of water and soil contamination have been done, no investigations of airborne particulate matter pollution have been conducted. This study applies tree bark from 31 Pinus ponderosa trees as a biomonitor of this airborne particulate matter. Bulk trace elemental analyses via inductively coupled plasma - mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) of tree bark show that U is the most abundant trace element of interest present up to 232 ppb. Other metals that are of potential human health concern include Th, Pb, and As which are present at 20 ppb, 104 ppb, and 20 ppb respectively. Calculated geoaccumulation indices determine these metals to be at high (U), moderate (Th), and low (Pb and As) levels of contamination. Detailed scanning electron microscopy (SEM) investigations of particulate matter from the surface of tree bark confirm that U and Th-bearing particulate matter exist in the <PM10 size fraction while geospatial analyses indicate that uranium, thorium, and arsenic contamination are centralized along the Midnite Mine access road and at the nearby Dawn Mill where ore was further processed. Combined, these findings indicate that the nature and distribution of historic airborne particulate matter from the Midnite Mine and Dawn Mill provide context for potentially understanding past and current illness on the reservation. In addition, much needed context for future health and environmental studies for both local and national Native American populations is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lonnie Flett
- Department of Geology and Environmental Earth Science, Shideler Hall, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | - Claire L McLeod
- Department of Geology and Environmental Earth Science, Shideler Hall, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA.
| | - Jessica L McCarty
- Department of Geography, Shideler Hall, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | - Barry J Shaulis
- Trace Element and Radiogenic Isotope Laboratory (TRAIL), University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, 72701, USA
| | - Justin J Fain
- Department of Geography, Shideler Hall, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA
| | - Mark P S Krekeler
- Department of Geology and Environmental Earth Science, Shideler Hall, Miami University, Oxford, OH, 45056, USA; Department of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Miami University Regionals, Hamilton, OH, 45011, USA
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Martin A, Hassan-Loni Y, Fichtner A, Péron O, David K, Chardon P, Larrue S, Gourgiotis A, Sachs S, Arnold T, Grambow B, Stumpf T, Montavon G. An integrated approach combining soil profile, records and tree ring analysis to identify the origin of environmental contamination in a former uranium mine (Rophin, France). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 747:141295. [PMID: 32777513 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141295] [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: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Uranium mining and milling activities raise environmental concerns due to the release of radioactive and other toxic elements. Their long-term management thus requires a knowledge of past events coupled with a good understanding of the geochemical mechanisms regulating the mobility of residual radionuclides. This article presents the results on the traces of anthropic activity linked to previous uranium (U) mining activities in the vicinity of the Rophin tailings storage site (Puy de Dôme, France). Several complementary approaches were developed based on a study of the site's history and records, as well as on a radiological and chemical characterization of soil cores and a dendrochronology. Gamma survey measurements of the wetland downstream of the Rophin site revealed a level of 1050 nSv.h-1. Soil cores extracted in the wetland showed U concentrations of up to 1855 mg.kg-1, which appears to be associated with the presence of a whitish silt loam (WSL) soil layer located below an organic topsoil layer. Records, corroborated by prior aerial photographs and analyses of 137Cs and 14C activities, suggest the discharge of U mineral particles while the site was being operated. Moreover, lead isotope ratios indicate that contamination in the WSL layer can be discriminated by a larger contribution of radiogenic lead to total lead. The dendroanalysis correlate U emissions from Rophin with the site's history. Oak tree rings located downstream of the site contain uranium concentrations ten times higher than values measured on unaffected trees. Moreover, the highest U concentrations were recorded not only for the operating period, but more surprisingly for the recent site renovations as well. This integrated approach corroborates that U mineral particles were initially transported as mineral particles in Rophin's watershed and that a majority of the deposited uranium appears to have been trapped in the topsoil layer, with high organic matter content.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Martin
- Laboratoire SUBATECH, UMR 6457, IMT Atlantique/Université de Nantes/CNRS/IN2P3 4 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307 Nantes, France
| | - Y Hassan-Loni
- Laboratoire SUBATECH, UMR 6457, IMT Atlantique/Université de Nantes/CNRS/IN2P3 4 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307 Nantes, France
| | - A Fichtner
- Laboratoire SUBATECH, UMR 6457, IMT Atlantique/Université de Nantes/CNRS/IN2P3 4 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307 Nantes, France; Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Resource Ecology, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - O Péron
- Laboratoire SUBATECH, UMR 6457, IMT Atlantique/Université de Nantes/CNRS/IN2P3 4 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307 Nantes, France.
| | - K David
- Laboratoire SUBATECH, UMR 6457, IMT Atlantique/Université de Nantes/CNRS/IN2P3 4 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307 Nantes, France
| | - P Chardon
- LPC, UMR 6533, CNRS/Université Clermont Auvergne, 4, rue Ledru, 63057 Clermont-Ferrand cedex, France
| | - S Larrue
- GEOLAB, UMR 6042, CNRS/Université Clermont Auvergne, 4, rue Ledru, 63057 Clermont-Ferrand cedex, France
| | - A Gourgiotis
- Institut de Radioprotection et de Sûreté Nucléaire - PSE/ENV - SEDRE/LELI, Fontenay-aux-Roses, 92262, France
| | - S Sachs
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Resource Ecology, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - T Arnold
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Resource Ecology, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - B Grambow
- Laboratoire SUBATECH, UMR 6457, IMT Atlantique/Université de Nantes/CNRS/IN2P3 4 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307 Nantes, France
| | - T Stumpf
- Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden - Rossendorf, Institute of Resource Ecology, Bautzner Landstraße 400, 01328 Dresden, Germany
| | - G Montavon
- Laboratoire SUBATECH, UMR 6457, IMT Atlantique/Université de Nantes/CNRS/IN2P3 4 Rue Alfred Kastler, 44307 Nantes, France
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Chellman N, Csank A, Gustin MS, Arienzo MM, Vargas Estrada M, McConnell JR. Comparison of co-located ice-core and tree-ring mercury records indicates potential radial translocation of mercury in whitebark pine. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 743:140695. [PMID: 32679494 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2019] [Revised: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Tree-ring records are a potential archive for reconstructing long-term historical trends in atmospheric mercury (Hg) concentrations. Although Hg preserved in tree rings has been shown to be derived largely from the atmosphere, quantitative relationships linking atmospheric concentrations to those in tree rings are limited. In addition, few tree-ring-based Hg records have been evaluated against co-located proxies of atmospheric Hg deposition or direct atmospheric measurements. Here we develop long-term Hg records extending from 1800 to 2018 CE using cores collected from two stands of whitebark pine located near the Upper Fremont Glacier in the Wind River Range, Wyoming, where a long-term record of atmospheric Hg deposition previously was developed from an ice core. The tree ring record showed that Hg concentrations increased beginning in 1800 CE to a broad peak centered at ~1960 CE, before decreasing to present, generally paralleling the ice-core record of Hg deposition. The exact timing and magnitude of the Hg increases in the trees, however, is offset earlier relative to the ice-core record. These discrepancies potentially arise from biotic processes that impact Hg uptake and preservation in whitebark pine, and results from an advection-diffusion model indicate that the temporal differences are consistent with radial movement of Hg within the trees. The forms of atmospheric Hg and seasonality may also impact the Hg record preserved by each archive, but are less likely to affect long-term trends. Further work is needed to assess radial Hg translocation in more controlled studies with larger sample sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Chellman
- Desert Research Institute, Division of Hydrologic Sciences, Reno, NV 89512, United States; Graduate Program of Hydrologic Sciences, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, United States.
| | - Adam Csank
- Department of Geography, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, United States
| | - Mae Sexauer Gustin
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, United States
| | - Monica M Arienzo
- Desert Research Institute, Division of Hydrologic Sciences, Reno, NV 89512, United States
| | - Margarita Vargas Estrada
- Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Science, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, United States
| | - Joseph R McConnell
- Desert Research Institute, Division of Hydrologic Sciences, Reno, NV 89512, United States
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6
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Assessment of tree bark as a biomonitor of anthropogenic thorium and radium contamination. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-018-6066-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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7
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McHugh KC, Widom E, Spitz HB, Wiles GC, Glover SE. Uranium mobility across annual growth rings in three deciduous tree species. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2018; 182:183-189. [PMID: 29150189 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2017.10.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 10/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Black walnut (Juglans nigra), slippery elm (Ulmus rubra), and white ash (Fraxinus americana) trees were evaluated as potential archives of past uranium (U) contamination. Like other metals, U mobility in annual growth rings of trees is dependent on the tree species. Uranium concentrations and isotopic compositions (masses 234, 235, 236, and 238) were analyzed by thermal ionization mass spectrometry to test the efficacy of using tree rings to retroactively monitor U pollution from the FFMPC, a U purification facility operating from 1951 to 1989. This study found non-natural U (depleted U and detectable 236U) in growth rings of all three tree species that pre-dated the start of operations at FFMPC and compositional trends that did not correspond with known contamination events. Therefore, the annual growth rings of these tree species cannot be used to reliably monitor the chronology of U contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly C McHugh
- Department of Geology and Environmental Earth Science, Miami University, 118 Shideler Hall, 250 S. Patterson Ave., Oxford, OH 45056, USA.
| | - Elisabeth Widom
- Department of Geology and Environmental Earth Science, Miami University, 118 Shideler Hall, 250 S. Patterson Ave., Oxford, OH 45056, USA
| | - Henry B Spitz
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Cincinnati, 598 Rhodes Hall, P.O. Box 210072, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
| | - Gregory C Wiles
- Department of Geology, The College of Wooster, Scovel Hall, 944 College Mall, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
| | - Sam E Glover
- Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering, University of Cincinnati, 598 Rhodes Hall, P.O. Box 210072, Cincinnati, OH 45221, USA
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8
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Märten A, Berger D, Köhler M, Merten D. The dendroanalysis of oak trees as a method of biomonitoring past and recent contamination in an area influenced by uranium mining. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:19417-19425. [PMID: 26104903 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-4902-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
We reconstructed the contamination history of an area influenced by 40 years of uranium mining and subsequent remediation actions using dendroanalysis (i.e., the determination of the elemental content of tree rings). The uranium content in the tree rings of four individual oak trees (Quercus sp.) was determined by laser ablation with inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). This technique allows the investigation of trace metals in solid samples with a spatial resolution of 250 μm and a detection limit below 0.01 μg/g for uranium. The investigations show that in three of the four oaks sampled, there were temporally similar uranium concentrations. These were approximately 2 orders of magnitude higher (0.15 to 0.4 μg/g) than those from before the period of active mining (concentrations below 0.01 μg/g). After the mining was terminated and the area was restored, the uranium contents in the wood decreased by approximately 1 order of magnitude. The similar radial uranium distribution patterns of the three trees were confirmed by correlation analysis. In combination with the results of soil analyses, it was determined that there was a heterogeneous contamination in the forest investigated. This could be confirmed by pre-remediation soil uranium contents from literature. The uranium contents in the tree rings of the oaks investigated reflect the contamination history of the study area. This study demonstrates that the dendrochemical analysis of oak tree rings is a suitable technique for investigating past and recent uranium contamination in mining areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arno Märten
- Institute of Geosciences, Friedrich Schiller University, Burgweg 11, 07749, Jena, Germany.
| | - Dietrich Berger
- Institute of Geosciences, Friedrich Schiller University, Burgweg 11, 07749, Jena, Germany
| | - Mirko Köhler
- WISMUT GmbH, Jagdschänkenstraße 29, 09117, Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Dirk Merten
- Institute of Geosciences, Friedrich Schiller University, Burgweg 11, 07749, Jena, Germany
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9
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McHugh KC, Widom E, Spitz HB, Glover SE. Analysis of a sugar maple tree core for monitoring environmental uranium contamination. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-015-4369-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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10
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Al-Hadithi TS, Al-Diwan JK, Saleh AM, Shabila NP. Birth defects in Iraq and the plausibility of environmental exposure: A review. Confl Health 2012; 6:3. [PMID: 22839108 PMCID: PMC3492088 DOI: 10.1186/1752-1505-6-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2011] [Accepted: 07/17/2012] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
An increased prevalence of birth defects was allegedly reported in Iraq in the post 1991 Gulf War period, which was largely attributed to exposure to depleted uranium used in the war. This has encouraged further research on this particular topic. This paper reviews the published literature and provided evidence concerning birth defects in Iraq to elucidate possible environmental exposure. In addition to published research, this review used some direct observation of birth defects data from Al-Ramadi Maternity and Paediatric Hospital in Al-Anbar Governorate in Iraq from1st July 2000 through 30th June 2002. In addition to depleted uranium other war-related environmental factors have been studied and linked directly or indirectly with the increasing prevalence of birth defects. However, the reviewed studies and the available research evidence do not provide a clear increase in birth defects and a clear indication of a possible environmental exposure including depleted uranium although the country has been facing several environmental challenges since 1980.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq S Al-Hadithi
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Jawad K Al-Diwan
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Baghdad University, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Abubakir M Saleh
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Nazar P Shabila
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
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11
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Caldwell EF, Duff MC, Ferguson CE, Coughlin DP, Hicks RA, Dixon E. Bio-monitoring for uranium using stream-side terrestrial plants and macrophytes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 14:968-76. [PMID: 22318309 DOI: 10.1039/c2em10738d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the abilities of various plant species to act as bio-monitors for environmental uranium (U) contamination. Vegetation and soil samples were collected from a U processing facility. The water-way fed from facility storm and processing effluents was the focal sample site as it represented a primary U transport mechanism. Soils and sediments from areas exposed to contamination possessed U concentrations that averaged 630 mg U kg(-1). Aquatic mosses proved to be exceptional accumulators of U with dry weight (dw) concentrations measuring as high as 12,500 mg U kg(-1) (approximately 1% of the dw mass was attributable to U). The macrophytes (Phragmites communis, Scripus fontinalis and Sagittaria latifolia) were also effective accumulators of U. In general, plant roots possessed higher concentrations of U than associated upper portions of plants. For terrestrial plants, the roots of Impatiens capensis had the highest observed levels of U accumulation (1030 mg kg(-1)), followed by the roots of Cyperus esculentus and Solidago speciosa. The concentration ratio (CR) characterized dry weight (dw) vegetative U levels relative to that in associated dw soil. The plant species that accumulated U at levels in excess of that found in the soil were: P. communis root (CR, 17.4), I. capensis root (CR, 3.1) and S. fontinalis whole plant (CR, 1.4). Seven of the highest ten CR values were found in the roots. Correlations with concentrations of other metals with U were performed, which revealed that U concentrations in the plant were strongly correlated with nickel (Ni) concentrations (correlation: 0.992; r-squared: 0.984). Uranium in plant tissue was also strongly correlated with strontium (Sr) (correlation: 0.948; r-squared: 0.899). Strontium is chemically and physically similar to calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg), which were also positively-correlated with U. The correlation with U and these plant nutrient minerals, including iron (Fe), suggests that active uptake mechanisms may influence plant U accumulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E F Caldwell
- Savannah River National Laboratory, Aiken, SC 29808, USA.
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12
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Boryło A, Skwarzec B, Olszewski G. The radiochemical contamination (²¹⁰Po and ²³⁸U) of zone around phosphogypsum waste heap in Wiślinka (northern Poland). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH. PART A, TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING 2012; 47:675-87. [PMID: 22416862 DOI: 10.1080/10934529.2012.660052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this work was the determination of the impact of phosphogypsum waste heap in Wiślinka (northern Poland) for radiological protection of zone around waste heap. These studies are very important for the estimation of natural alpha radionuclides contents in the vicinity of phosphogypsum waste heap and for environmental pollution assessment of this area. The process of bioaccumulation of radionuclides in interior plants parts prove to examine their origin sources, too. The activity of (210)Po, (234)U, and (238)U were measured using an alpha spectrometer. The values of uranium and polonium concentration in water with immediate area of waste heap are considerably higher than in the waters of the Martwa Wisła river. The values of activity ratio (234)U/(238)U are approximately about one in the phosphogypsum (0.97 ± 0.05) and in the water of retention reservoir and pumping station (0.92 ± 0.01 and 0.99 ± 0.08), while in the water from the Martwa Wisła river they are slightly higher than one (1.03 ± 0.07 and 1.17 ± 0.06). In the analyzed plants species the highest amounts of polonium and uranium were found in ruderal plants samples (between 51 ± 1 and 89 ± 1 for (210)Po; between 36 ± 3 and 68 ± 3 for (238)U) as well as hygrophilous plant samples (18 ± 1 and 84 ± 3; 42 ± 2 and 130 ± 4, respectively for (210)Po and (238)U). The more amounts of (210)Po and (238)U radionuclides were accumulated mainly in the roots of plant species in comparison to green parts. The general conclusion of realized study is higher influence of phosphogypsum on radioactive contamination of environmental zone around heap waste in Wiślinka (northern Poland).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicja Boryło
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Gdańsk, Gdańsk, Poland.
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Handley-Sidhu S, Keith-Roach MJ, Lloyd JR, Vaughan DJ. A review of the environmental corrosion, fate and bioavailability of munitions grade depleted uranium. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2010; 408:5690-5700. [PMID: 20858561 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2010.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2010] [Revised: 08/10/2010] [Accepted: 08/16/2010] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
Depleted uranium (DU) is a by-product of nuclear fuel enrichment and is used in antitank penetrators due to its high density, self-sharpening, and pyrophoric properties. Military activities have left a legacy of DU waste in terrestrial and marine environments, and there have been only limited attempts to clean up affected environments. Ten years ago, very little information was available on the dispersion of DU as penetrators hit their targets or the fate of DU penetrators left behind in environmental systems. However, the marked increase in research since then has improved our knowledge of the environmental impact of firing DU and the factors that control the corrosion of DU and its subsequent migration through the environment. In this paper, the literature is reviewed and consolidated to provide a detailed overview of the current understanding of the environmental behaviour of DU and to highlight areas that need further consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Handley-Sidhu
- Water Sciences Research Group, School of Geography, Earth, Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
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14
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Monticelli D, Di Iorio A, Ciceri E, Castelletti A, Dossi C. Tree ring microanalysis by LA–ICP–MS for environmental monitoring: validation or refutation? Two case histories. Mikrochim Acta 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/s00604-008-0049-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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15
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Balouet JC, Oudijk G. The Use of Dendroecological Methods to Estimate the Time Frame of Environmental Releases. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1080/10406020600561309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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16
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Shtangeeva I, Ayrault S, Jain J. Thorium uptake by wheat at different stages of plant growth. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2005; 81:283-293. [PMID: 15795040 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2004.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/05/2005] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Data on biogeochemistry of thorium are rather limited. So far little is known about toxic effects of small amounts of the radionuclide on higher plants. In this study the uptake of thorium by wheat seedlings was measured by greenhouse experiments. Germination of wheat seeds for 6 days in the presence of thorium resulted in accumulation of the metal in all parts of the seedlings. When the Th-rich seedlings were transferred to normal soil and were grown there further for 7 days, Th concentrations in roots and leaves decreased significantly (in leaves the Th content decreased up to the level of Th in the control plants). In seeds, however, Th content remained unchanged. An increase of Th content in roots and seeds was also observed as a result of addition of thorium to soil but in this case the concentration of Th in leaves did not change. The accumulation of Th in plants affected the uptake of other elements including essential macro-nutrients. The most strongly affected part of the plants was leaf.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Shtangeeva
- St. Petersburg University, Universitetskaya nab. 7/9, St. Petersburg 199034, Russia.
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17
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Seltzer MD. Laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry measurement of isotope ratios in depleted uranium contaminated soils. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2003; 57:1173-1177. [PMID: 14611049 DOI: 10.1366/00037020360696053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Laser ablation of pressed soil pellets was examined as a means of direct sample introduction to enable inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) screening of soils for residual depleted uranium (DU) contamination. Differentiation between depleted uranium, an anthropogenic contaminant, and naturally occurring uranium was accomplished on the basis of measured 235U/238U isotope ratios. The amount of sample preparation required for laser ablation is considerably less than that typically required for aqueous sample introduction. The amount of hazardous laboratory waste generated is diminished accordingly. During the present investigation, 235U/238U isotope ratios measured for field samples were in good agreement with those derived from gamma spectrometry measurements. However, substantial compensation was required to mitigate the effects of impaired pulse counting attributed to sample inhomogeneity and sporadic introduction of uranium analyte into the plasma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D Seltzer
- Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division, China Lake, California 93555, USA.
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18
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Punshon T, Bertsch PM, Lanzirotti A, McLeod K, Burger J. Geochemical signature of contaminated sediment remobilization revealed by spatially resolved X-ray microanalysis of annual rings of Salix nigra. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2003; 37:1766-1774. [PMID: 12775047 DOI: 10.1021/es0261628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
An X-ray microprobe was used to determine the concentration and distribution of Ni, U, and other metals within annual rings of willows (Salix nigra L.) from a former de facto radiological settling basin (Steed Pond; SP) and a depositional environment downstream (Tims Branch; TB) on the Savannah River Site (SRS). Geochemical and historical information about both areas are well documented. Following spillway breaches at SP in 1984 and the early 1990s, TB is inundated with contaminated sediments during storms. Bulk elemental composition of tree cores was determined using ICP-OES. Synchrotron X-rayfluorescence (SXRF) analysis showed that the metal contents of SP and TB cores were an order of magnitude higher than those from a reference site. TB cores were enriched with Ni in 1984 and 1991, corresponding with SP spillway breaches (containing 790 mg kg(-1) Ni in 1991). Cores from SP exhibited an extremely high Ni peak in 1996, approximately 5000 mg kg(-1), even though contaminant levels at SP did not change. The geochemical signature of contaminants recorded in TB annual rings reflected the significant sediment remobilization events consistent with the detailed history of the site, and at concentrations relative to their proximity to the source term. However, physiological processes occurring within impacted trees strongly influence the chronological accuracy of dendroanalysis and must be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy Punshon
- Consortium for Risk Evaluation With Stakeholder Participation, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Division of Life Sciences, Rutgers University, 604 Allison Road, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, USA.
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19
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Chapter 14 Plant biodiversity and environmental stress. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2003. [DOI: 10.1016/s0927-5215(03)80144-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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20
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Bleise A, Danesi PR, Burkart W. Properties, use and health effects of depleted uranium (DU): a general overview. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2003; 64:93-112. [PMID: 12500797 DOI: 10.1016/s0265-931x(02)00041-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 286] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Depleted uranium (DU), a waste product of uranium enrichment, has several civilian and military applications. It was used as armor-piercing ammunition in international military conflicts and was claimed to contribute to health problems, known as the Gulf War Syndrome and recently as the Balkan Syndrome. This led to renewed efforts to assess the environmental consequences and the health impact of the use of DU. The radiological and chemical properties of DU can be compared to those of natural uranium, which is ubiquitously present in soil at a typical concentration of 3 mg/kg. Natural uranium has the same chemotoxicity, but its radiotoxicity is 60% higher. Due to the low specific radioactivity and the dominance of alpha-radiation no acute risk is attributed to external exposure to DU. The major risk is DU dust, generated when DU ammunition hits hard targets. Depending on aerosol speciation, inhalation may lead to a protracted exposure of the lung and other organs. After deposition on the ground, resuspension can take place if the DU containing particle size is sufficiently small. However, transfer to drinking water or locally produced food has little potential to lead to significant exposures to DU. Since poor solubility of uranium compounds and lack of information on speciation precludes the use of radioecological models for exposure assessment, biomonitoring has to be used for assessing exposed persons. Urine, feces, hair and nails record recent exposures to DU. With the exception of crews of military vehicles having been hit by DU penetrators, no body burdens above the range of values for natural uranium have been found. Therefore, observable health effects are not expected and residual cancer risk estimates have to be based on theoretical considerations. They appear to be very minor for all post-conflict situations, i.e. a fraction of those expected from natural radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bleise
- International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Department of Nuclear Science and Applications, Wagramer Strasse 5, P.O. Box 100, A-1400 Vienna, Austria
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