Near-range Gaussian plume modelling for gamma dose rate reconstruction

    Research outputpeer-review

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    Abstract

    In the context of nuclear facilities, atmospheric dispersion modelling is often used for emergency planning and during accidents. Gamma dose rate stations, that are installed in the vicinity of many nuclear facilities as part of an early warning network, are often the first source of information when radioactivity is released to the atmosphere. Moreover, at some installations these stations are also able to pick up emissions during routine operation. In this work, we perform near-range atmospheric transport and dispersion simulations at three nuclear installations (of which two were operating normally and one during an incident) under varying meteorological conditions. The purpose of this modelling is to check consistency between the various components of several unexplored datasets. Source terms are estimated based on stack monitoring and/or calculations, and meteorological data were obtained on-site. A Gaussian plume model is used for the dispersion calculations, and gamma dose rates are calculated through volumetric integration over the full cloud and all different photon energies rather than using dose coefficients. Modelling results are subsequently compared with gamma dose rates that were observed using both fixed and mobile measurement stations. Largely consistent results were obtained between observed dose rates and modelling results.
    Original languageEnglish
    Title of host publication21st International Conference on Harmonisation within Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling for Regulatory Purposes
    PublisherHarmonisation within Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling for Regulatory Purposes, HARMO
    Number of pages5
    StatePublished - 30 Sep 2022
    Event2022 - 21st International Conference on Harmonisation within Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling for Regulatory Purposes - University of Aveiro, Aveiro
    Duration: 27 Sep 202230 Sep 2022

    Conference

    Conference2022 - 21st International Conference on Harmonisation within Atmospheric Dispersion Modelling for Regulatory Purposes
    Abbreviated titleHARMO21
    Country/TerritoryPortugal
    CityAveiro
    Period2022-09-272022-09-30

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