OPERATION CENIZA-ARENA: TECHNIQUES FOR THE MEASUREMENT OF DEPOSITION AND REDISTRIBUTION OF FALLOUT AROUND STRUCTURES.

Abstract : The continuing eruptions of Volcan Irazu and the consequent deposition of volcanic debris on the city of San Jose, Costa Rica, offered a unique opportunity to improve our understanding of deposition and redistribution of fallout-like particles (ceniza-arena) around structures. The techniques for the measurement of the deposition and redistribution of fallout were proof-tested and evaluated during the series of field measurements. The results were limited by the lack of volcanic activity during the measurement periods; however, the measurements showed a possible relationship between wind speed and the mass of fallout deposited. (Author)