Analysis of gross radioactivity levels in drinking water around Shidao Bay Nuclear Power Plant, 2018-2021 / 中国辐射卫生

ABSTRACT

Objective To investigate the gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity levels in drinking water around Shidao Bay Nuclear Power Plant before its operation. Methods Ten sampling sites were set up within 30 km of Shidao Bay Nuclear Power Plant. From 2018 to 2021, samples were collected during the dry season and wet season each year and were tested in a laboratory according to Standard examination methods for drinking water—radiological parameters (GB/T 5750.13—2006). Results From 2018 to 2021, the gross alpha radioactivity in drinking water within 30 km of Shidao Bay Nuclear Power Plant was within the range of about 0.004-0.420 Bq/L, which does not exceed the guided gross alpha radioactivity specified in the National Standard; from 2018 to 2021, the gross beta radioactivity level was about 0.008-1.050 Bq/L. In 2018, the gross beta radioactivity at the sampling site 4.7 km from the Nuclear Power Plant exceeded the guided level specified in the National Standards for Drinking Water Quality (GB 5749—2006), but it fell within the guided level in a repeat laboratory test after deducting the effect of 40K on the gross beta radioactivity. Conclusion After deducting the effect of 40K on the gross beta radioactivity, the gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity levels in drinking water within 30 km of Shidao Bay Nuclear Power Plant are within the guided levels specified in the National Standards.