MLAM assessment of radionuclide air concentration and deposition for the Chernobyl reactor accident

This paper describes an analysis of the spatial and temporal patterns of air concentrations and depositions estimated for Europe by a multi-layer, three-dimensional, meso-alpha-scale model, MLAM. Information is provided on the atmospheric transport of the effluent plume from the damaged reactor, surface air concentrations, and wet and dry deposition. Numerous measurements were made after the accident, and in some countries the observations may be sufficient to determine general air concentration and deposition patterns. Where measurements are available, modeled values are compared with them. However, there are large areas in Europe where such measurements are not available, and it is in these areas that modeling provides additional aid in determining the impact of the accident. The purpose of the paper is to provide insight into areas of possible deposition where measurements are not available. 19 refs., 6 figs., 4 tabs