Behaviors and transfers of anthropogenic radionuclides (137Cs, 239+240Pu and 241Am) in a protected alpine wetland (France)

The aim of this study is to confirm and increase the knowledge on anthropogenic radionuclide (RN) behavior (137Cs, 239+240Pu, 241Am) in natural compartments (artificial pool in a protected upland area). The novelty lies on comparisons of the three main compartments (pool water, soil, sediments) of this original mountainous site. Migration processes and transfers were particularly detailed in the light of two processes: lixiviation and leaching. Regarding 238U, anthropogenic RNs, lithology, organic matter contents, sedimentation rates (210Pb) and isotopic mass balances, RNs are mainly transported by leaching processes with higher 241Am in-depth mobility compared to 137Cs (intermediate for 239+240Pu).