Estimation of the emission of radioactive contaminated dust in connection with the remediation activities of the Wismut GmbH

Radiological protection regulations require assessment of exposure to workers and the general public from the inhalation of contaminated dust due to remediation activities performed by WISMUT GmbH. Relocation activities of waste pile material and vehicle movements on contaminated surfaces are characterized as diffuse dust emissions. Specific measurements performed near working places were aimed at the quantification of dust generation rates. Findings of dust concentration measurements, particle size distributions and activity concentrations of longlived alpha emitters contained in dust during waste pile relocation activities are presented. In addition, investigations focused on dust release by wind erosion which is significantly determined by wind speed, soil roughness and soil properties (particle size distribution, moisture, crust formation). Quantification of dust release by wind erosion was performed under field conditions by means of a mobile wind tunnel. (orig.)