Radionuclide dispersion after core-concrete melt leaching by groundwater

After a core meltdown accident it cannot be completely ruled out that the melt will reach and partly penetrate, the concrete foundation. The amounts of some radionuclides leached out by the passing groundwater are estimated. The transport of dissolved radionuclides in groundwater is simulated by an analytical dispersion model; the underlying parameters are the hydrogeological characteristics of the Upper Rhine Valley. Simple models are used to estimate the ensuring radiation exposures for various exposure pathways. A number of technical and administrative measures are indicated which allow the radionuclide concentration in the groundwater and the radiation exposure to be reduced considerably. (orig.)