Plutonium distribution in sequentially extracted phases of arable and uncultivated soils

Abstract The aim of this study was to determine the distribution alpha-emitting plutonium isotopes from arable and uncultivated soils. effect soils cultivation on fractionation mobility studied using sequential extraction technique (modified Tessier’s method). Soil samples were collected surface layer in selected points. By means reagents with increasing leaching power, fractions separated: readily available, carbonate bound, sesquioxide (Fe/Mn) bound organically as well residual. content 239+240 Pu determined by alpha spectrometry. analysis showed that case soils, 67% combined organic matter, 15% permanently matrix, but only 4% associated available fraction, 2% one. Arable revealed a different distribution: 36% 7% much 9% 11% It proved is mostly matter (67% Pu—uncultivated 36%—arable soils), however, amounts labile (ion-exchange carbonate) are approximately 4 times higher for than ones. This proves soil can lead launch its transition more accessible forms which cause radiological risk.