The deposition of ¹⁴C, ³H and ³⁵S to vegetation in the vicinities of a Magnox and an advanced gas cooled reactor

During the routine operation of Magnox and advanced gas cooled (AGR) reactors the radionuclides ¹⁴C, ³H and ³⁵S are released. These radionuclides, therefore, form an important component of the collective dose as a result of the operation of these reactors. Of particular interest however are the operations of start up and blowdown when peaks of activity are believed to be released. In the vicinity of the Calder Hall, Magnox, and Hinkley Point, AGR, sample collectors for ¹⁴C, ³H and ³⁵S, together with a tray of cabbages, are positioned at a number of locations around the site during these special operations. Air concentrations for ³H and crop concentrations for ¹⁴C, ³H and ³⁵S are reported from these operations along with the derived transfer factor for ³H₂O. The implications of these results are discussed.