Measurements of Radon, Thoron, Isotopic Uranium and Thorium to Determine Occupational & Environmental Exposure & Risk at Fernald Feed Materials Production Center

(1) To develop an accurate personal 222Rn (radon) and 220Rn (thoron) monitor to measure an individual exposures during DOE remediation activities. (2) To develop a personal aerosol particle size sampler, based on the principles of a novel sampler we have developed. The sampler measures not only 222Rn decay product aerosol size but long lived nuclides, size distribution and air concentration. As yet, there are no personal size distribution data for the inhaled aerosol particle size distribution of any radioactive nuclide during DOE remediation activities, yet the aerosol particle size is the major determinant of the radiation dose to the lung. (3) To develop the sequential radiochemistry necessary to measure any environmental sample for the isotopes of uranium, thorium, radium and lead-210. To utilize this radiochemistry for lead-210 before and after the radium is removed form the silos to accurately determine the amount of radon gas released, from the parent radium during removal. To utilize the radiochemistry to accurately trace and delineate thorium, radium and uranium nuclides, originating from Fernald, in the environment