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Consequences of the Chernobyl fallout on some Italian underbrush produces: A ten-year study

Journal Article · · Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part A: Environmental Science and Engineering
 [1]; ;  [2]
  1. Univ. of Parma (Italy)
  2. ARPA, Parma (Italy)

In this paper we present the results of a decennial (1986-1995) investigation on radiocaesium concentrations in soil, honey, mushrooms and other underbrush produces collected in a representative upland region of the Italian Apennines. Concentrations of {sup 134}Cs and {sup 137}Cs in numerous samples were determined by gamma-ray spectrometry. The data obtained showed a relatively high {sup 137}Cs concentration, up to 8973 Bq m{sup -2}, in the superficial (0-2 cm) mineral soil. In most of the mushrooms, as well as in other underbrush produces, the detected activities were generally <20 Bq kg{sup -1}. However, a high radiocontamination was observed in two species, namely Rozites Caperatus (with 584 and 735 Bq kg{sup -1} of {sup 137}Cs), and Tricholoma Nudum (3450 Bq kg{sup -1} ). Caesium concentration in honey showed a sharp increase soon after the Chernobyl accident, followed by a slow progressive decrease. 11 refs., 3 tabs.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
458655
Journal Information:
Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part A: Environmental Science and Engineering, Journal Name: Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part A: Environmental Science and Engineering Journal Issue: 10 Vol. 31; ISSN 0360-1226; ISSN JESEDU
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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