Potential pathways to man for radionuclides from excavation applications of peaceful nuclear explosives

Nuclear explosive excavation is distinguished from other PNE applications by the collateral prompt release of radioactive material. A major consideration in project design is to assure that radiation exposures downwind are kept as low as practicable, as well as below radiation protection guidelines. In addition, application of the technology has international implications in that some of the released radioactivity will be carried across national boundaries, and some will eventually be distributed world-wide. Consequently, the impact of potential radiation exposure resulting from dissemination of radioactive material locally and world-wide must be included in project feasibility evaluations. Thus, excavation projects must be designed to minimize the potential for biological impact through radiation exposure from all significant pathways to man. The basic methods of accomplishing this are: (i) use of explosives specifically designed for excavation with minimum production of biologically significant radionuclides; (ii) detonation under preselected meteorological conditions; and (iii) temporary predetonation evacuation of people from the close-in downwind sector in order to minimize potential exposures. This report outlines the pathways of potential radiation exposure to man and summarizes the methodology utilized to predict exposures for nuclear excavation projects. An example of predicted exposures for a major excavation project is summarized. (author)