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Huang W, Focker M, van Dongen KCW, van der Fels-Klerx HJ. Factors influencing the fate of chemical food safety hazards in the terrestrial circular primary food production system-A comprehensive review. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf 2024; 23:e13324. [PMID: 38517020 DOI: 10.1111/1541-4337.13324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Revised: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Food safety is recognized as a major hurdle in the transition toward circular food production systems due to the potential reintroduction and accumulation of chemical contaminants in these food systems. Effectively managing these hazardous contaminants in a risk-based manner requires quantitative insights into the factors influencing the presence and fate of contaminants in the entire circular food chain. A systematic literature review was performed to gain an up-to-date overview of the known factors and their influence on the transfer and accumulation of contaminants. This review focused on the terrestrial circular primary food production system, including the pathways between waste- or byproduct-based fertilizers, soil, crops, animal feed, and farmed animals. This review revealed an imbalance in research regarding the different pathways: studies on the soil-to-crop pathway were most abundant. The factors identified can be categorized as compound-related (intrinsic) factors, such as hydrophobicity, molecular weight, and chain length, and extrinsic factors, such as soil organic matter and carbon, pH, milk yield of cows, crop age, and biomass. Quantitative data on the influence of the identified factors were limited. Most studies quantified the influence of individual factors, whereas only a few studies quantified the combined effect of multiple factors. By providing a holistic insight into the influential factors and the quantification of their influence on the fate of contaminants, this review contributes to the improvement of food safety management for chemical hazards when transitioning to a circular food system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixin Huang
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marlous Focker
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Katja C W van Dongen
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - H J van der Fels-Klerx
- Wageningen Food Safety Research, Wageningen University & Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
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2
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Yin Q, Lyu P, Wang G, Wang B, Li Y, Zhou Z, Guo Y, Li L, Deng N. Phosphorus-modified biochar cross-linked Mg-Al layered double-hydroxide stabilizer reduced U and Pb uptake by Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) in uranium contaminated soil. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 234:113363. [PMID: 35248924 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The decommissioning of uranium tailings (UMT) is usually accompanied by uranium (U) contamination in soil, which poses a serious threat to human health and ecological security. Therefore, the remediation of uranium pollution in soil is imminent from ecological and environmental points of view. In recent years, the use of biochar stabilizers to repair uranium tailings (UMT) soil has become a research hotspot. In this study, a novel phosphorus-modified bamboo biochar (PBC) cross-linked Mg-Al layered double-hydroxide composite (PBC@LDH) was prepared. The hyperaccumulator plant Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L.) was selected as the test plant for outdoor pot experiments, and the stabilizers were added to the UMT soil at the dosage ratio of 15 g kg-1, which verified the bioconcentrate and translocate of U and associated heavy metal Pb in the UMT soil by Indian mustard after stabilizer remediated. The results shown that, after 50 days of growth, compared with the untreated sample (CK), the Indian mustard in PBC@LDH treatment possessed a better growth and its biomass weight of whole plant was increased by 52.7%. Meanwhile, the bioconcentration factors (BF) of U and Pb for PBC@LDH treatment were significantly decreased by 73.4% and 34.2%, respectively; and the translocation factors (TF) were also commendable reduced by 15.1% and 2.4%, respectively. Furthermore, the Tessier available forms of U and Pb in rhizosphere soil showed a remarkably decrease compared with CK, which reached by 55.97% and 14.1% after PBC@LDH stabilization, respectively. Complexation, precipitation, and reduction of functional groups released by PBC@LDH with U and Pb described the immobilization mechanisms of biochar stabilizer preventing U and Pb enrichment in Indian mustard. As well as, the formation of U-containing vesicles was prevented by the precipitation of -OH functional groups with free U and Pb ions around the cell tissue fluids and vascular bundle structure of plant roots, thereby reducing the migration risk of toxic heavy metals to above-ground parts. In conclusion, this research demonstrates that the PBC@LDH stabilizer offers a potentially effective amendment for the remediation of U contaminated soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuling Yin
- School of Water Resources & Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Peng Lyu
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing 100101, China; Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Guanghui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Resources and Environment, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China; School of Water Resources & Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China.
| | - Bing Wang
- School of Water Resources & Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Yingjie Li
- School of Water Resources & Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Zhongkui Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Resources and Environment, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China; School of Water Resources & Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Yadan Guo
- State Key Laboratory of Nuclear Resources and Environment, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China; School of Water Resources & Environmental Engineering, East China University of Technology, Nanchang 330013, China
| | - Lianfang Li
- Key Laboratory of Agro-Environment, Ministry of Agriculture, Beijing 100101, China; Institute of Environment and Sustainable Development in Agriculture, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Nansheng Deng
- School of Resources and Environmental Science, Wuhan University,Wuhan 430079, China
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3
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Pearson AJ, Gaw S, Hermanspahn N, Glover CN, Anderson CWN. Radium in New Zealand agricultural soils: Crop uptake and estimation of current and future ionising radiation dose. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2022; 244-245:106808. [PMID: 35091216 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2021.106808] [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: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Crop uptake of 226Ra over a range of key New Zealand agricultural and horticultural growing areas was analysed to establish the dietary implications of an increase in soil 226Ra activity concentrations. Thirty crop samples, covering both feed and food commodities, were quantified for 226Ra activity concentrations, and concentration ratio (CRs) from the soil activity were calculated. The calculated CRs correlated with international default values for estimating crop uptake. Variation in CRs established that there was no increase in the crop activity concentration, relative to soil 226Ra from pasture foliage at a fertiliser impacted site, with a gradient of soil 226Ra activity concentrations. Based on the calculated CRs, the upper bound of the theoretical range of dietary exposures to 226Ra was 78.1 μSv/yr for teenage boys. Future forecasting of the increased dietary dose of 226Ra that might occur at the current soil loading rate, based on current fertiliser activity concentrations, confirmed that long-term loading of soil with 226Ra is unlikely to present a dietary risk. The forecast model calculated that the increase in dietary ionising radiation burden is unlikely to reach thresholds requiring regulatory intervention for two millennia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Pearson
- Ministry for Primary Industries, PO Box 2526, Wellington, 6011, New Zealand; University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand.
| | - Sally Gaw
- University of Canterbury, Private Bag 4800, Christchurch, 8140, New Zealand.
| | - Nikolaus Hermanspahn
- Institute of Environmental Science & Research Ltd, PO Box 29-181, Christchurch, 8540, New Zealand.
| | - Chris N Glover
- Faculty of Science and Technology and Athabasca River Basin Research Institute, Athabasca University, Alberta, Canada; Department of Biological Science, University of Alberta, Canada.
| | - Chris W N Anderson
- Massey University, Private Bag 11 222, Palmerston North, 444, New Zealand.
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Rosa MML, Maihara VA, Taddei MHT, Cheberle LTV, Avegliano RP, Silva PSC. The use of total diet study for determination of natural radionuclides in foods of a high background radiation area. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2022; 242:106793. [PMID: 34923321 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2021.106793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 12/04/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The activity concentrations of 40K, 210Pb, 210Po, 226Ra, 228Ra, 228Th, 230Th, 232Th, 234U, and 238U were determined in 82 food samples, grouped into 20 food groups according to the Brazilian Total Diet, which reflects the dietary habits of a population, for the rural and urban areas of Poços de Caldas city, a High Background Radiation Area. The highest activity concentration found in the food samples was due to 40K being present in all types of food. Among the other radionuclides, high activity concentrations were found for 210Pb in beans and salt, 210Po in fish, 226Ra and 228Ra in nuts and seeds. The main food groups that contributed most to the effective dose, in urban and rural regions, were beans and beverages. The effective doses, due to the ingestion of the analysed food groups, were of 0.44 and 0.60 mSv y-1 and the lifetime cancer risks were 1.6 × 10-3 and 2.3 × 10-3 for the urban and rural Poços de Caldas population, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mychelle M L Rosa
- Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2242, CEP, 05508-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil; Comissão Nacional de Energia Nuclear / Laboratório de Poços de Caldas (CNEN / LAPOC), Rodovia Poços de Caldas/Andradas km 13. CEP 37701-970, Poços de Caldas, MG, Brazil; Ambientis Radioproteção, Av. Real, 236, Aldeia da Serra, CEP 06429-200, Barueri, SP, Brazil
| | - Vera A Maihara
- Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2242, CEP, 05508-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Maria Helena T Taddei
- Comissão Nacional de Energia Nuclear / Laboratório de Poços de Caldas (CNEN / LAPOC), Rodovia Poços de Caldas/Andradas km 13. CEP 37701-970, Poços de Caldas, MG, Brazil
| | - Luan T V Cheberle
- Ambientis Radioproteção, Av. Real, 236, Aldeia da Serra, CEP 06429-200, Barueri, SP, Brazil
| | - Roseane P Avegliano
- Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2242, CEP, 05508-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Paulo S C Silva
- Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Av. Prof. Lineu Prestes, 2242, CEP, 05508-000, São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
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5
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Intake of natural radionuclides present in organic and conventional foods: radiological aspects. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-021-08162-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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6
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Girault F, Perrier F, Ourcival JM, Ferry R, Gaudemer Y, Bourges F, Didon-Lescot JF. Substratum influences uptake of radium-226 by plants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 766:142655. [PMID: 33153746 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.142655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Radium-226, an alpha emitter with half-life 1600 years, is ubiquitous in natural environments. Present in rocks and soils, it is also absorbed by vegetation. The efficiency of 226Ra uptake by plants from the soil is important to assess for the study of heavy metals uptake by plants, monitoring of radioactive pollution, and the biogeochemical cycle of radium in the Critical Zone. Using a thoroughly validated measurement method of effective 226Ra concentration (ECRa) in the laboratory, we compare ECRa values of the plant to that of the closest soil, and we infer the 226Ra soil-to-plant transfer ratio, RSP, for a total of 108 plant samples collected in various locations in France. ECRa values of plants range over five orders of magnitude with mean (min-max) of 1.66 ± 0.03 (0.020-113) Bq kg-1. Inferred RSP values range over four orders of magnitude with mean (min-max) of 0.0188 ± 0.0004 (0.00069-0.37). The mean RSP value of plants in granitic and metamorphic context (0.073 ± 0.002; n = 50) is significantly higher (12 ± 1 times) than that of plants in calcareous and sedimentary context (0.0058 ± 0.0002; n = 58). This difference, which cannot be attributed to a systematic difference in emanation coefficient, is likely due to the competition between calcium and radium. In a given substratum context, the compartments of a given plant species show coherent and decreasing RSP values in the following order (acropetal gradient): roots > bark > branches and stems ≈ leaves. Oak trees (Quercus genus) concentrate 226Ra more than other trees and plants in this set. While this study clearly demonstrates the influence of substratum on the 226Ra uptake by plants in non-contaminated areas, our measurement method appears as a promising practical tool to use for (phyto)remediation and its monitoring in uranium- and radium-contaminated areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Girault
- Université de Paris, Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris, CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France.
| | - Frédéric Perrier
- Université de Paris, Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris, CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Jean-Marc Ourcival
- CEFE, Université Montpellier, CNRS, EPHE, IRD, Université Paul Valéry Montpellier 3, F-34000, Montpellier, France
| | - Roxane Ferry
- Université de Paris, Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris, CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Yves Gaudemer
- Université de Paris, Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris, CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - François Bourges
- Géologie Environnement Conseil, 30 rue de la République, F-09200 Saint-Girons, France
| | - Jean-François Didon-Lescot
- Station de Recherches INRA/CNRS laboratoire ESPACE, 390 chemin des Boissières, F-30380 Saint Christol-lès-Alès, France
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7
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Assessment Framework for Natural Groundwater Contamination in Arid Regions: Development of Indices and Wells Ranking System Using Fuzzy VIKOR Method. WATER 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/w12020423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Limited groundwater resources in arid regions have been found polluted for drinking purpose due to the presence of natural minerals and radioactive substances, in the sub-soils, higher than the drinking water quality standards. Municipalities in these regions are spending extensive resources to transport (from well fields) and treat this raw water to provide safe water to the community. Regular monitoring of various physical, chemical, and radioactive water quality parameters (WQPs) in raw water generates large datasets, which makes it difficult to come up with convenient findings for both the decision-makers and general public. A hierarchical water quality assessment framework develops three sub-indices, an overall water quality index, and a system for ranking of groundwater wells. Fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (fuzzy-AHP) establishes the importance weights of different WQPs and the sub-indices based on their impacts on human health, treatment processes, distribution system infrastructure, and irrigation applications. Fuzzy VIekriterijumsko KOmpromisno Rangiranje (fuzzy-VIKOR) method aggregates the WQPs’ performance for each well and ranks all the wells in a well field based on their overall pollution levels, i.e., remoteness from the applicable standards. For evaluating the pragmatism of the framework, data of 11 WQPs were obtained for 39 wells operating in three different well fields located along the boundaries and the central part of Buraydah, Qassim, Saudi Arabia. Spatial water quality maps showing physical, chemical, radioactive, and overall water quality assessment results revealed that the oldest well field located in the middle of the city outperforms the other two more recently developed well fields with lesser anthropogenic activities in their catchments. These findings testify that the primary source of contamination in deep aquifers is the natural sub-soil condition. The water quality indices will be useful to demonstrate the current situation of groundwater quality in Qassim Region and will facilitate the decision-makers for defining the intended uses of raw water sources (i.e., drinking, unrestricted irrigation, and restricted irrigation) and rehabilitation and renewal planning of the groundwater wells. The framework is applicable in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Gulf Region, and elsewhere for groundwater quality assessment with desired modifications.
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8
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Dutra Garcêz RW, Marques Lopes J, da Silva Perez S, da Costa Lauria D, Paim Viglio E, Gonçalves da Cunha F, Araújo Ribeiro FC, Xavier da Silva A. Activity concentration and mapping of radionuclides in Espírito Santo State soils, Brazil. Radiat Phys Chem Oxf Engl 1993 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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9
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Hayek EE, Brearley AJ, Howard T, Hudson P, Torres C, Spilde MN, Cabaniss S, Ali AMS, Cerrato JM. Calcium in Carbonate Water Facilitates the Transport of U(VI) in Brassica juncea Roots and Enables Root-to-Shoot Translocation. ACS EARTH & SPACE CHEMISTRY 2019; 3:2190-2196. [PMID: 31742240 PMCID: PMC6859903 DOI: 10.1021/acsearthspacechem.9b00171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The role of calcium (Ca) on the cellular distribution of U(VI) in Brassica juncea roots and root-to-shoot translocation was investigated using hydroponic experiments, microscopy, and spectroscopy. Uranium accumulated mainly in the roots (727-9376 mg kg-1) after 30 days of exposure to 80 μM dissolved U in water containing 1 mM HCO3 - at different Ca concentrations (0-6 mM) at pH 7.5. However, the concentration of U in the shoots increased 22 times in experiments with 6 mM Ca compared to 0 mM Ca. In the Ca control experiment, transmission electron microscopy-energy-dispersive spectroscopy analyses detected U-P-bearing precipitates in the cortical apoplast of parenchyma cells. In experiments with 0.3 mM Ca, U-P-bearing precipitates were detected in the cortical apoplast and the bordered pits of xylem cells. In experiments with 6 mM Ca, U-P-bearing precipitates aggregated in the xylem with no apoplastic precipitation. These results indicate that Ca in carbonate water inhibits the transport and precipitation of U in the root cortical apoplast and facilitates the symplastic transport and translocation toward shoots. These findings reveal the considerable role of Ca in the presence of carbonate in facilitating the transport of U in plants and present new insights for future assessment and phytoremediation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliane El Hayek
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, University of New Mexico, MSC03 2060, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Adrian J. Brearley
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of New Mexico, MSC03 2040, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Tamara Howard
- Department of Cell Biology and Physiology, University of New Mexico, MSC08 4750, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Patrick Hudson
- Department of Biology, University of New Mexico, MSC03 2020, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Chris Torres
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, University of New Mexico, MSC01 1120, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Michael N. Spilde
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of New Mexico, MSC03 2040, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Stephen Cabaniss
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, University of New Mexico, MSC03 2060, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - Abdul-Mehdi S. Ali
- Department of Earth and Planetary Sciences, University of New Mexico, MSC03 2040, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
| | - José M. Cerrato
- Department of Civil Engineering, University of New Mexico, MSC01 1070, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87131, United States
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Radiological impact from natural radionuclide activity concentrations in soil and vegetables at former tin mining area and non-mining area in Peninsular Malaysia. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-017-5654-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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11
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Nezami S, Malakouti MJ, Bahrami Samani A, Ghannadi Maragheh M. The role of organic acids on 226Ra transfer factor in corn (Zea mays L.). J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-017-5265-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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12
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Blanco Rodríguez P, Vera Tomé F, Lozano JC. Influence of soil structure on the "F v approach" applied to 238U and 226Ra. CHEMOSPHERE 2017; 168:832-838. [PMID: 27825713 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.10.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 10/26/2016] [Accepted: 10/30/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The soil-to-plant transfer factors were determined in a granitic area for the two long-lived uranium series radionuclides 238U and 226Ra. With the aim to identify a physical fraction of soil whose concentration correlates linearly with the plant concentration, the soil compartment was analyzed in various stages. An initial study identified the soil compartments as being either bulk soil or its labile fraction. The bulk soil was subsequently divided into three granulometric fractions consisting of: coarse sand, fine sand, and silt and clay. The soil-to-plant transfer of radionuclides for each of these three texture fractions was analyzed. Lastly, the labile fraction was extracted from each textural part, and the activity concentration of the radionuclides 238U and 226Ra was measured. In order to assess the influence of soil texture on the soil-to-plant transfer process, we sought to identify possible correlations between the activity concentration in the plant compartment and those found in the different fractions within each soil compartment. The results showed that the soil-to-plant transfer process for uranium and radium depends on soil grain size, where the results for uranium showed a linear relationship between the activity concentration of uranium in the plant and the fine soil fraction. In contrast, a linear relation between the activity concentration of radium in the plant and the soil coarse-sand fraction was observed. Additionally, the presence of phosphate and calcium in the soil of all of the compartments studied affected the soil-to-plant transfer of uranium and radium, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Blanco Rodríguez
- Grupo de Radiactividad Natural, Universidad de Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain
| | - F Vera Tomé
- Grupo de Radiactividad Natural, Universidad de Extremadura, 06071 Badajoz, Spain.
| | - J C Lozano
- Laboratorio de Radiaciones Ionizantes, Universidad de Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
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13
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Du L, Feng X, Huang Z, Liu B, Jin Y, Fang Z, Zhang D, Liu N, Wang R, Xia C. The effect of U speciation in cultivation solution on the uptake of U by variant Sedum alfredii. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 23:9964-9971. [PMID: 26865480 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-016-6226-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2015] [Accepted: 02/01/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, five plant species were screened for uranium uptake using a hydroponic experimental set-up. The effect of the U concentration, pH, as well as the presence of carbonates, phosphates, and organic acids (lactic acid, malic acid, citric acid) on the uptake of U by variant S. alfredii (V S. alfredii) and wild S. alfredii (W S. alfredii) were investigated. Results showed that V S. alfredii exhibited higher U content in the roots than the other four plants and with the increase of U concentration in the solution, the U uptake by V S. alfredii and W S. alfredii increased. The results also showed that different U speciation in different cultivation solution took an important role on the uptake of U in variant Sedum alfredii: at pH 6.5, U hydrolysis species (UO2)3(OH)5 (+)is predominant and the U concentrations in V S. alfredii roots reached a maximum value (3.7 × 10(4) mg/kg). U complexation with carbonates, phosphates, and some organic acids in the solution resulted in a decrease in the U content in the roots except for lactic acid. Our researches highlight the correlations between U speciation and the uptake on V S. Alfredii, which will be helpful for improved removal of U from the groundwater using phytoremediation method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Du
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Physics and Technology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Xiaojie Feng
- Logistic Engineering University, Chongqing, 401311, China
| | - Zhenling Huang
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Borui Liu
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Yongdong Jin
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China
| | - Zhenggang Fang
- Logistic Engineering University, Chongqing, 401311, China
| | - Dong Zhang
- Institute of Nuclear Physics and Chemistry, China Academy of Engineering Physics, Mianyang, 621900, People's Republic of China
| | - Ning Liu
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Physics and Technology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China.
| | - Ruibing Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau, China.
| | - Chuanqin Xia
- Key Laboratory of Radiation Physics and Technology, Ministry of Education, Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China.
- College of Chemistry, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610064, China.
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14
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Radioactivity in soils and some terrestrial foodstuffs from organic and conventional farming areas in Izmir, Turkey. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2015. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-015-4009-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Hu N, Ding D, Li G, Zheng J, Li L, Zhao W, Wang Y. Vegetation composition and ²²⁶Ra uptake by native plant species at a uranium mill tailings impoundment in South China. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2014; 129:100-106. [PMID: 24412774 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2013] [Revised: 09/16/2013] [Accepted: 12/17/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
A field investigation was conducted for the vegetation composition and (226)Ra uptake by native plant species at a uranium mill tailings impoundment in South China. 80 species belonging to 67 genera in 32 families were recorded in the sampling sites. The Poaceae and Asteraceae were the dominant families colonizing the impoundment. The number of the plant species and vegetation community composition in the sampling sites seemed most closely related to the activities of (226)Ra and the pH value of the uranium tailings. The plant species in the sampling sites with relatively low activities of (226)Ra and relatively high pH value formed a relatively stable vegetation community. The plant species in the sampling sites with medium activities of (226)Ra and medium pH value formed the transitional vegetation community. The plant species in the sampling sites with relatively high activities of (226)Ra and relatively low pH value formed a simple unstable vegetation community that was similar to that on the unused grassland. The activities of (226)Ra and transfer factors (TFs) varied greatly with the plant species. The high activities of (226)Ra and TFs were found in the leaves of Pteris multifida (150.6 Bq/g of AW; 9.131), Pteridium aquilinum (122.2 Bq/g of AW; 7.409), and Dryopteris scottii (105.7 Bq/g of AW; 6.408). They satisfied the criteria for a hyperaccumulator for (226)Ra. They may be the candidates for phytoremediation of (226)Ra in the uranium mill tailings impoundment areas and the contaminated soils around.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Hu
- Key Discipline Laboratory for National Defense for Biotechnology in Uranium Mining and Hydrometallurgy, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Dexin Ding
- Key Discipline Laboratory for National Defense for Biotechnology in Uranium Mining and Hydrometallurgy, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China.
| | - Guangyue Li
- Key Discipline Laboratory for National Defense for Biotechnology in Uranium Mining and Hydrometallurgy, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Jifang Zheng
- Key Discipline Laboratory for National Defense for Biotechnology in Uranium Mining and Hydrometallurgy, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Le Li
- Key Discipline Laboratory for National Defense for Biotechnology in Uranium Mining and Hydrometallurgy, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Weichao Zhao
- Key Discipline Laboratory for National Defense for Biotechnology in Uranium Mining and Hydrometallurgy, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
| | - Yongdong Wang
- Key Discipline Laboratory for National Defense for Biotechnology in Uranium Mining and Hydrometallurgy, University of South China, Hengyang, Hunan 421001, PR China
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Borges RC, Ribeiro FCA, Lauria DDC, Bernedo AVB. Radioactive characterization of phosphogypsum from Imbituba, Brazil. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 126:188-195. [PMID: 24051335 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2012] [Revised: 06/05/2013] [Accepted: 07/31/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
This research aims to characterize the content of natural occurring radionuclides in phosphogypsum stacks at Imbituba, Santa Catarina state, Brazil. (226)Ra, (228)Ra, (40)K, (238)U and (232)Th were determined in PG, soils and sediment samples by gamma spectrometry using the hyper pure germanium detector and neutron activation. The migration of radionuclides in the phosphogypsum profile did not show the same behavior for all sampling sites. The mean activity concentration of (226)Ra was 95 Bq kg(-1), which is far below the limit recommended by the U.S. Environmental Agency (USEPA) for its application in agriculture (370 Bq kg(-1)) and the Brazilian Commission of Nuclear Energy Resolution 113 that established a reference level of 1000 Bq kg(-1) of (226)Ra or (228)Ra for the use of PG in agriculture as well as building materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renata Coura Borges
- Instituto de Engenharia Nuclear, Rua Hélio de Almeida 75, Cidade Universitária - Ilha do Fundão, 21941-906 Rio de Janeiro-RJ, Brazil.
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17
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Medley P, Bollhöfer A, Parry D, Martin P. Radium concentration factors in passionfruit (Passiflora foetida) from the Alligator Rivers Region, Northern Territory, Australia. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 126:137-146. [PMID: 23994954 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
In this study, uptake of Ra from soil into the edible fruit of the wild passionfruit species Passiflora foetida was investigated, using selective extraction from the soil samples. A wide range of environmental exposure conditions were represented by the locations that were sampled, including both natural soils, and soils influenced by past and present uranium mining activities. The bioavailable (226)Ra fraction in soils was found to be a better predictor of (226)Ra fruit activity concentrations than the total soil activity concentration, or any of the other fractions studied. Concentration Factors (CFs) derived using the bioavailable fraction varied by only a factor of 7 between different locations, whereas CFs derived using other fractions and total soil varied by up to two orders of magnitude. CFs were highest for those soils containing the lowest concentrations of Mg, Ca and Ba, and approached a saturation value at higher soil concentrations. This finding suggests that group II elements influence radium uptake, most likely the result of increased pressure on the plant to take up essential nutrient group II elements from soil with the lower concentrations, with Ra being taken up as an analogue element. It is also possible that at higher concentrations of bioavailable Ca and Mg in the soil, these ions will outcompete Ra for adsorption sites in the soil and/or on the root surfaces. The study also shows that (228)Ra can potentially be a significant contributor to ingestion doses and should also be considered when assessing committed effective doses from the ingestion of fruits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Medley
- Environmental Research Institute of the Supervising Scientist (ERISS), Darwin, NT 0801, Australia.
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18
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Sussa FV, Damatto SR, Alencar MM, Mazzilli BP, Silva PSC. Natural radioactivity determination in samples of Peperomia pellucida commonly used as a medicinal herb. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 116:148-51. [PMID: 23153861 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2012] [Revised: 09/14/2012] [Accepted: 09/30/2012] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The concentration of (238)U, (232)Th, (230)Th, (226)Ra, (228)Ra and (210)Pb were determined in samples of Peperomia pellucida and in the surrounding soil, by alpha spectrometry and gross alpha and beta counting. The radionuclide activity concentrations ranged from 4.3 to 38 Bq kg(-1), 1.7-124 Bq kg(-1), 2.1-38 Bq kg(-1), 8.5-37 Bq kg(-1), 3.2-46 Bq kg(-1), 39-93 Bq kg(-1), respectively. In the plant extractions and infusions as used for consumption, the mean recoveries were from 23% to 60% in maceration and 24-75% in infusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fábio V Sussa
- Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares - Centro do Reator de Pesquisas, (IPEN - CRPq/CNEN - SP), Av. Professor Lineu Prestes 2242, Cidade Universitária, CEP 05508-000 São Paulo, SP, Brazil
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19
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Ross EM, Raj YL, Wesley SG, Rajan MP. Selected natural and fallout radionuclides in plant foods around the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project, India. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2013; 115:201-206. [PMID: 23017443 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Revised: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 08/13/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The activity concentrations of certain radionuclides were quantified in some plant foods cultivated around Kudankulam, where a mega-nuclear power plant is being established. The activity concentrations were found more in the 'pulses' group and were the lowest in 'other vegetable' category. The annual effective dose was computed based on the activity concentration of radionuclides and it was found to be higher due to the consumption of cereals and pulses. Other vegetables, cereals, pulses and nuts recorded high transfer factors for the radionuclide (228)Ra. Fruits, leafy vegetables, tubers and roots, and palm embryo registered high transfer factors for (226)Ra. Group-wise activity concentration, radiation dose to the public and soil-plant-to-transfer factor are discussed in detail.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mahiban Ross
- Department of Zoology and Research Center, Scott Christian College (Autonomous), Nagercoil, Tamil Nadu 629003, India.
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20
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de Castro LP, Maihara VA, Silva PSC, Figueira RCL. Artificial and natural radioactivity in edible mushrooms from Sao Paulo, Brazil. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2012; 113:150-4. [PMID: 22765964 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.05.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2011] [Revised: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 05/30/2012] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Environmental biomonitoring has demonstrated that organisms such as crustaceans, fish and mushrooms are useful to evaluate and monitor both ecosystem contamination and quality. Particularly, some mushroom species have a high capacity to retain radionuclides and some toxic elements from the soil and the air. The potential of mushrooms to accumulate radionuclides in their fruit-bodies has been well documented. However, there are no studies that determine natural and artificial radionuclide composition in edible mushrooms, in Brazil. Artificial ((137)Cs) and natural radioactivity ((40)K, (22)(6)Ra, (2)(28)Ra) were determined in 17 mushroom samples from 3 commercialized edible mushroom species. The edible mushrooms collected were Agaricus sp., Pleurotus sp. and Lentinula sp. species. The activity measurements were carried out by gamma spectrometry. The levels of (137)Cs varied from 1.45 ± 0.04 to 10.6 ± 0.3 Bq kg(-1), (40)K levels varied from 461 ± 2 to 1535 ± 10 Bq kg(-1), (2)(26)Ra levels varied from 14 ± 3 to 66 ± 12 Bq kg(-1) and (228)Ra levels varied from 6.2 ± 0.2 to 54.2 ± 1.7 Bq kg(-1). (137)Cs levels in Brazilian mushrooms are in accordance with the radioactive fallout in the Southern Hemisphere. The artificial and natural activities determined in this study were found to be below the maximum permissible levels as established by national legislation. Thus, these mushroom species can be normally consumed by the population without any apparent risks to human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- L P de Castro
- Instituto de Pesquisas Energéticas e Nucleares (IPEN/CNEN-SP), Av.Prof. Lineu Prestes 2242, CEP 05508-000 Sao Paulo, Brazil
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21
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Girault F, Perrier F. Measuring effective radium concentration with large numbers of samples. Part II--general properties and representativity. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2012; 113:189-202. [PMID: 22819630 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2012.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2012] [Revised: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 06/18/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Effective radium concentration EC(Ra), product of radium concentration and radon emanation, is the source term for radon release into the pore space of rocks and the environment. Over a period of three years, we performed more than 6000 radon-222 accumulation experiments in the laboratory with scintillation flasks and SSNTDs and we obtained experimental EC(Ra) values from more than 1570 rock and soil samples. With this method, which allowed the measurement of EC(Ra) from large numbers of samples with sufficient accuracy and uncertainty, as detailed in the companion paper, the dependence of the emanation factor on temperature and moisture content is revisited. In addition, with such a large EC(Ra) dataset, dispersion of EC(Ra) can be studied at sample-scale (cm to dm) and at scarp-scale (m to tens of m). Furthermore, we are able to discuss the representativity of obtained EC(Ra) values at field-scale, and to investigate the spatial variations of EC(Ra) over kilometric scales, within geological formations and across formations and faults. This experimental study opens new perspectives in the understanding of radium geochemistry and illustrates the importance of studying the radon source term with large numbers of samples for the modelling of geological and environmental processes, and also for the assessment of the radon health hazard.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frédéric Girault
- Équipe de Géomagnétisme, Institut de Physique du Globe de Paris, Sorbonne Paris Cité, University Paris Diderot, UMR 7154 CNRS, F-75005 Paris, France.
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22
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Jeambrun M, Pourcelot L, Mercat C, Boulet B, Pelt E, Chabaux F, Cagnat X, Gauthier-Lafaye F. Potential sources affecting the activity concentrations of 238U, 235U, 232Th and some decay products in lettuce and wheat samples. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING : JEM 2012; 14:2902-12. [PMID: 23001397 DOI: 10.1039/c2em30434a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023]
Abstract
The activity concentrations of radionuclides within the uranium and thorium series were determined in wheat and lettuce at five sites in France, and in their respective potential sources: crop soils of wheat and crop soils and irrigation waters of lettuce. These data were used to calculate concentration ratios and to enrich the database supported by the technical report series N°472 of the IAEA (2010). For wheat and lettuce, the activity concentrations were in the same range for all radionuclides studied, except for (210)Pb, which had higher activity concentrations in wheat, ranging between 1.3 and 11 Bq kg(−1) (fresh weight) as compared to 0.4 and 0.7 Bq kg(−1) (fresh weight) for lettuce. For wheat, the range of activity concentrations (mBq kg(−1); fresh weight) decreased as (210)Pb > (226)Ra (56–1511) ≈ (228)Ra (86–769) > (228)Th (19–176) ≈ (238)U (11–169) ≈ (234)U (12–150) ≈ (230)Th (9.08–197.18) ≈ (232)Th (8.61–121.45) > (235)U (0.53–7.9). For lettuce, it decreased as (228)Ra (<320–1221) > (210)Pb (409–746) > (226)Ra (30–599) ≈ (228)Th (<29–347) > (238)U (8–120) ≈ (234)U (8–121) ≈ (230)Th (5.21–134.63) ≈ (232)Th (5.25–156.99) > (235)U (0.35–5.63). The species differences may reflect different plant physiologies. Through the study of activity ratios of wheat and lettuce in relation with those of the various radionuclide sources it has been possible to highlight the contribution of the main sources of natural radionuclides. Indeed, irrigation water when the uranium concentration is enhanced (>30 mBq L(−1)) contributed significantly to the activity concentration of uranium in lettuces. Concerning the high activity concentrations of (210)Pb, it could be explained by atmospheric particle deposition. The effect of soil particles resuspension and their adhesion to the plant surface seemed to be important in some cases. The soil-to-plant transfer factors were calculated for lettuce and wheat. The values were lower in wheat than in lettuce except for (210)Pb which had similar values in the two species (0.11–0.13 respectively). For both species, (210)Pb followed by (228)Ra (0.015–0.10) and (226)Ra (0.010–0.051) displayed the highest transfer factor, whereas (238)U had intermediate values (0.0015–0.030) and (232)Th exhibited the lowest (0.0014–0.013).
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Affiliation(s)
- M Jeambrun
- Institut de Radioprotection et de SûC Nucléaire, Bat 153 BP3, 13115 St Paul lez Durance cedex, France.
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Shanthi G, Thanka Kumaran JT, Gnana Raj GA, Maniyan CG. Transfer factor of the radionuclides in food crops from high-background radiation area of south west India. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2012; 149:327-332. [PMID: 21680604 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncr235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
It is necessary to obtain the transfer factor (TF) of long-lived radionuclides because soil type and vegetation can affect TF. We studied the food crops commonly consumed by the general public of Kanyakumari district of south India. The main focus was on rice, fruits, vegetables and tapioca because the consumption of these is high. The soil to rice TF for the radionuclides, (226)Ra, (232)Th, (238)U and (40) K are 8.8×10(-2), 14.2×10(-2), 5.8×10(-2) and 6.3×10(-2), respectively. The TF of tapioca for (226)Ra, (232)Th, (238)U and (40) K are 6.2×10(-2) , 11×10(-2), 1.9×10(-2) and 8.9×10(-2), respectively. For fruits and vegetables, the TFs are low. In the majority of the crops the non-edible parts accumulate more radionuclides than the edible parts.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Shanthi
- Department of Physics, Women's Christian College, Nagercoil 629001, India.
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Baeza A, Corbacho JA, Guillén J, Salas A, Mora JC, Robles B, Cancio D. Enhancement of natural radionuclides in the surroundings of the four largest coal-fired power plants in Spain. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 14:1064-72. [PMID: 22330984 DOI: 10.1039/c2em10991c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The production of electricity in coal-fired power plants (CFPP) is considered a NORM (Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials) activity because the coals they burn can present relatively high contents of the naturally occurring radionuclides. In this study, the main radiological impact pathways into the surrounding environments of the four largest coal-fired power plants in Spain were analyzed. These pathways are, first, atmospheric evacuations and wind resuspension and, second, effluent evacuations to nearby rivers or directly to the sea. The atmospheric releases of radionuclides were evaluated by the analyses of soil profiles in the vicinities of the CFPPs. No significant enhancement of radionuclides in the surface soil was observed at the points of maximum deposition of combustion gases, located from 4.3 to 13 km away depending on the considered CFPP. However, an increase of (40)K, (226)Ra, and (232)Th in the surface soils was observed in the first kilometre from the chimney for two CFPPs. This suggested that these radionuclides were released in particulate form. There was also a net influence of the climate in which the CFPPs were located. This was observed in the two CFPPs that were in dry environments, while no increase was observed in the other two, located in more humid environments. The liquid effluents released usually presented an enhancement of dissolved chemical species regarding the initial intake water. Enrichments of the (234,238)U and (226)Ra contents in the water used in the plants' routine procedures were observed, and of (210)Po in the wastewater of just one of the plants. In any case, this enhancement was below the parametric value for the Total Indicative Dose for the hypothetical human consumption of the released waters. As a consequence of these releases of radionuclides, local products destined for human consumption produced in the vicinity of the facilities might incorporate natural radionuclides by these pathways, finding no significant enhancement of the natural radionuclide contents due to the CFPPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Baeza
- LARUEX, Dpt. Applied Physics, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Extremadura, Avda. Universidad, s/n, 10003, Cáceres, Spain
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Ramadan KA, Seddeek MK, Nijim A, Sharshar T, Badran HM. Radioactivity of sand, groundwater and wild plants in northeast Sinai, Egypt. ISOTOPES IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH STUDIES 2011; 47:456-469. [PMID: 22092101 DOI: 10.1080/10256016.2011.633165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
The radioactivity levels are poorly studied in non-coastal arid regions. For this reason, 38 locations covering an area of about 350 km(2) in northeast Sinai, Egypt, were investigated by γ-ray spectroscopy. Moderately significant correlations among (238)U, (234)Th, and (226)Ra isotopes and low significant correlations between the concentrations of (238)U-series and (232)Th in sand were obtained. No evidence of correlation was found between the concentrations of radioisotopes and pH, grain size, total organic matter content, bicarbonate or calcium carbonate concentrations of the sand samples. The mean values of soil-to-plant transfer factor were 0.15, 0.18, 1.52 and 0.74 for (226)Ra, (232)Th, (40)K, and (137)Cs, respectively. The range of concentrations of (226)Ra,( 232)Th, and (40)K in water samples collected from five wells were<0.4-0.16,<0.4-0.13, and<0.15-1.62 Bq l(-1), respectively. The mean absorbed dose rate in outdoor air at a height of 1 m above the ground surface for the sand samples was 19.4 nGy h(-1). The Ra(eq) activities of the sands are lower than the recommended maximum value of 370 Bq kg(-1) criterion limit for building materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled A Ramadan
- Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
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Lindahl P, Maquet A, Hult M, Gasparro J, Marissens G, González de Orduña R. Natural radioactivity in winter wheat from organic and conventional agricultural systems. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2011; 102:163-169. [PMID: 21145145 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2010.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2010] [Revised: 10/10/2010] [Accepted: 11/09/2010] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The distribution of natural radionuclides was studied in winter wheat plants collected from three sites in Belgium during 2004-2007. Activity concentrations of (40)K, (226)Ra, (228)Ra and (228)Th in organically and conventionally grown wheat, and in the corresponding soil samples, were determined using ultra low-level gamma-ray spectrometry. The observed soil-to-wheat concentration ratios were calculated for the different parts of the wheat plant (root, stem and grain) in the two agricultural systems (organic and conventional). There were large variations in radionuclide activity concentrations between the sites and fields, but no significant difference between conventionally and organically grown wheat plants was observed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patric Lindahl
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre, Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements, Retieseweg 111, Geel, Belgium
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Mabit L, Martin P, Jankong P, Toloza A, Padilla-Alvarez R, Zupanc V. Establishment of control site baseline data for erosion studies using radionuclides: a case study in East Slovenia. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2010; 101:854-863. [PMID: 20687248 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2010.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to establish a reference site and its soil characteristics for use of fallout radionuclides in erosion studies in Slovenia. Prior to this study, no reference site and baseline data existed for Slovenia for this purpose. In the agricultural area of Goricko in East Slovenia, an undisturbed forest situated in Salamenci (46 degrees 44'N, 16 degrees 7'E), was selected to establish the inventory value of fallout 137Cs and to establish a baseline level of multi-elemental fingerprint (major, minor, trace elements including heavy metals) and naturally occurring radionuclides in soils. A total of 20 soil profiles were collected at four 10 cm depth increments for evaluation of baseline level of 137Cs inventory. An exponential distribution for 137Cs was found and the baseline level inventory was established at 7300 +/- 2500 Bq m-2 with a coefficient of variation of 34%. Of this mean present-day inventory, approximately 45% is due to the Chernobyl contribution. The physical degradation of soils through erosion is linked with biochemical degradation. This study introduces an approach to establishment of the naturally occurring radionuclide and elemental fingerprints baseline levels at a reference site which can provide comparative data to those from neighbouring agricultural fields for assessment of soil redistribution magnitude using fallout radionuclides. In addition, this information will be used to determine the impact of soil erosion processes and agricultural practices on soil quality and redistribution within agricultural landscapes in Slovenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lionel Mabit
- Soil Science Unit, FAO/IAEA Agriculture & Biotechnology Laboratory, IAEA Laboratories Seibersdorf, PO Box 100, Wagramerstrasse 5, A-1400 Vienna, Austria.
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