The concentration and movement of Chernobyl radionuclides in North Wales

The concentration of radionuclides cesium 134, 137, ruthenium 103, 106, and iodine 131 in North Wales soils attributable to the Chernobyl accident was determined by gamma-ray spectrometry. The results show the higher concentrations to be in the upland areas of Gwynedd. Temporal studies at a number of locations show differing patterns of weathering behaviour which correlate with organic matter content. The movement both down the soil profile and into vegetation has been investigated. The authors' findings indicate lack of penetration below root depth and high levels of 137Cs persisting in vegetation where soils contain a high percentage of organic matter. (author)