Methods of evaluating the radioecological impact of the Chernobyl accident on the river Rhone

As a result of radiological monitoring of the Rhone, it has been possible to compare the impact of the Chernobyl accident with that of the nuclear facilities located along its course. Water, sediment, plant and fish samples have been collected and analysed. Chemical analyses by atomic absorption or neutron activation techniques have made it possible to determine the stable elements. The 3H, 90Sr and Pu contents have been determined radiochemically. Other nuclides have been detected by Ge gamma spectrometry. The information collected is being stored in a computerized database. (author). 6 refs, 1 fig., 3 tabs