Citation

Pöllänen R, Ikäheimonen TK, Klemola S, Vartti VP, Vesterbacka K, Ristonmaa S, Honkamaa T, Sipilä P, Jokelainen I, Kosunen A, Zilliacus R, Kettunen M, Hokkanen M. J. Environ. Radioact. 2003; 64(2-3): 133-142.

Affiliation

STUK-Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority, P.O. Box 14, 00881 Helsinki, Finland. roy.pollanen@stuk.fi

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

12500800

Abstract

Projectiles suspected to be composed of depleted uranium (DU) were found in Kosovo. Their properties were analysed using alpha and gamma ray spectrometry, mass spectrometry and electron microscopy. They were found to be composed of DU with small amounts of other elements such as Ti. 236U was detected in the penetrators, reflecting the use of reprocessed fuel. No transuranium elements were detected. The typical external dose rate meter is not the best option for mapping the location of penetrators from the ground. Monte Carlo calculations were performed in estimating possible skin doses. Penetrators in long-lasting contact with skin may cause a notable equivalent dose to skin.

Language: en