Determining the presence of anthropogenic radionuclides in Puerto Rico: preliminary results

Anthropogenic radionuclides have been introduced to Puerto Rico, a United States (US) Commonwealth, via two major sources: global atmospheric fallout and local US government-sponsored tropical ecosystem experiments, prototype nuclear reactor testing and military artillery exercises. In October 2003 a preliminary investigation was initiated to examine the distribution and behavior of anthropogenic radionuclides in the Caribbean National Forest, Vieques, Jobos Bay, and Rincon. During this investigation sediment, vegetation and water samples have been collected and analyzed. Analytical results of sediment samples indicate the presence of anthropogenic radionuclides at all three sample locations. ¹³⁷Cs and particle size characteristics of sediment samples are presented. Outcomes from this on-going investigation will include an increased understanding of radionuclide concentrations, distributions and behaviors, with respect to local aquatic geochemistry, dominant transport processes and ecological characteristics