Validation Study of Gaussian Plume Model with Radiation Measurement Data during Fukushima Dai-ichi Nuclear Power Plant Accident

Abstract

The purpose of this research project is to validate the data obtained from the Gaussian Plume Model for atmospheric dispersion for use in emergency conditions and for emergency preparedness. The Gaussian Plume Model is one of the most widely used atmospheric dispersion models around the world. Essentially, it is used to predict the concentration and spread of a contaminant from a set source location onto the atmosphere surrounding the area. In nuclear power plants, it is used to identify the concentration of radioactive materials released into the atmosphere in the event of the accidental release of radionuclides beyond the power plant site boundaries. For this study, real-life data from the Fukushima accident was used to cross-examine the data obtained from the Gaussian Plume Model to verify the validity and conservativeness of the information obtained from the Gaussian Plume Model. This validation study explored the possibilities of using the Gaussian Plume Model for emergency preparedness purposes. It was found that the model can provide conservative radionuclide concentrations under specific conditions, namely conditions pertaining to meteorological states and within a radius of 25 km from release.

Date of Award	May 2022
Original language	American English