Study on possible air samplers for use in emergency preparedness

Authors:

  • Klas Elmgren
  • Catharina Söderström
  • Johan Kastlander

Publish date: 2020-06-15

Report number: FOI-R--4952--SE

Pages: 20

Written in: Swedish

Keywords:

  • Air sampling
  • Emergency preparedness

Abstract

The sampling capacity of airborne radioactivity in connection with an event at the nuclear power plants in Sweden needs to be modernized, including a renewal of the sampler population. Expected activity concentration levels in the atmosphere after a possible event may vary in several orders of magnitude, depending on the amount of released activity, weather conditions, etc. Preferably, the same sampler should be used independently of the conditions. Total collected activity for different scenarios has been assessed and put in relation to measurement capacity and the minimum detectable activity in laboratory measurement of collected samples. A market survey of suitable samplers has been carried out. Several manufacturers of suitable equipment have been identified. The sampler should be robust and adapted to the Swedish climate and have adjustable airflow suitable for different scenarios. Sampling of gaseous iodine by means of special cartridges must be possible. Some specified models of samplers are recommended and should be tested, including regarding ease of use. It is recommended to establish weather protected prepared measurement sites with access to electricity. A collection strategy, instructions for handling of samplers and collection, and how transport and measurement of samples should be managed must be prepared. The entire chain from sampling to reporting analysis results should be practiced regularly.