Concentration and distribution of uranium in atmospheric particulates.

Abstract

The concentration and distribution of uranium in the atmosphere surrounding a nuclear fuel processing factory were examined. Uranium, scandium, and thorium in the atmospheric particulates were determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA). The concentration of uranium in the atmosphere surrounding the factory was as low as that in other environments. Significant correlations (p 2μm in diameter) using an Andersen high-volume sampler. Daily retention of uranium in the respiratory organs was estimated to range from 1.1 to 1.5 ng per person. The calibration curve for uranium by INAA was linear between 0 and 500 ng. The limit of determination of uranium in the atmospheric particulates by this technique was 1.0 mgkg-1. It was concluded that the cellulose filter was suitable for determination of uranium in atmospheric particulates by INAA because of its low blank value.