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Radiological aspects of environmental tritium

Journal Article · · Nucl. Saf., v. 17, no. 2, pp. 216-223
OSTI ID:4058521
The potential radiological implications of tritium released to the environment must be assessed to develop a policy for managing the tritium inventory projected for the nuclear power industry, which already produces tritium in megacurie quantities annually. Development of fusion reactors will create large potential sources for continuous and pulse releases of tritium, much of it as tritium gas. At present 90 percent of the tritium produced is released in gaseous and liquid effluents to be deposited in the hydrosphere as tritiated water. Two alternatives must be considered relative to a long-term policy for tritium management. One method is to dilute and disperse the tritium from power stations and nuclear fuel-reprocessing plants at a rate commensurate with production at the facility, and the second method is to take steps to contain the tritium for storage. A number of factors that influence the magnitude of the estimated radiological impact of tritium on man are discussed, and key points concerning the behavior of tritium along the exposure pathways to man are summarized. (auth)
Research Organization:
Originating Research Org. not identified
NSA Number:
NSA-33-029132
OSTI ID:
4058521
Journal Information:
Nucl. Saf., v. 17, no. 2, pp. 216-223, Journal Name: Nucl. Saf., v. 17, no. 2, pp. 216-223; ISSN NUSAA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English