Residual radionuclide contamination within and around nuclear power plants: origin, distribution, inventory and assessment

To provide the NRC with an actual data base of residual radionuclide measurements within nuclear power plants, Pacific Northwest Laboratory (PNL) has conducted a comprehensive sampling and analysis program at seven nuclear power plants. The objectives of these studies are to: (1) provide information on the range of composition, quantities, and locations of radionuclide residues likely to be encountered in retired reactor power stations (exclusive of the neutron activated portions of the reactor pressure vessel) and in the immediate station environs; (2) identify the origin of the radionuclide contamination, and correlate observed radionuclide inventories with reactor operating histories and procedures; (3) develop, to the degree possible, predictive capabilities to permit generic assessments of residual radionuclide contamination in nuclear power plants; and (4) provide a data base for use in formulating policies and strategies for decommissioning retired nuclear power plants. The nuclear power stations which have been studied include four boiling water reactors (BWR) and three pressurized water reactors (PWR).