Abstract
The processes which determine transport, dispersion, and cycling of tritium are identified for atmospheric, terrestrial, aquatic, and groundwater systems. The processes are discussed in terms of the storage capacity for tritium in each component of each system and ranges of residence times are derived. The residence times of each component of the systems are discussed in terms of the residence time of the whole system for transient releases of tritium into different components of the systems. The role of the ocean as a sink for tritium is described. The concentration of tritium in the system at steady state is described in terms of the inputs and outputs to the components of the systems. The analysis indicates that the key residence time for a specific release of tritium into the environment is dependent on both the residence time of the components and the means of introduction into the environment. The initial concentration ad residence time of tritium in the terrestrial system after an exposure to tritiated water vapor are determined by the atmospheric and vegetative conditions at the time of the release. The dominant residence time is that of the vegetation. On the other hand, the initial concentration and residence time of tritium in the terrestrial system after an exposure to tritiated hydrogen are determined by the atmospheric and soil conditions at the time of the release. The dominant residence time is that of the soil. The initial concentration and residence time after a liquid release to the soil surface are determined by the diluting soil water content and the residence time for water in the rooting zone of the soil. Little tritium enters the organic fraction of terrestrial systems from transient releases of gases or liquid water. 102 refs., 19 figs., 2 tabs.
Submitted Version (
Free)
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have