Additional Research Needs to Support the GENII Biosphere Models

Napier, Bruce A. ; Snyder, Sandra F. ; Arimescu, Carmen

关键词: GENII computer code;    research needs;    biosphere models;   

DOI  :  10.2172/1115840
RP-ID  :  PNNL-22506
PID  :  OSTI ID: 1115840
Others  :  Other: 401001060

美国|英语

来源: SciTech Connect

【 摘 要 】

In the course of evaluating the current parameter needs for the GENII Version 2 code (Snyder et al. 2013), areas of possible improvement for both the data and the underlying models have been identified. As the data review was implemented, PNNL staff identified areas where the models can be improved both to accommodate the locally significant pathways identified and also to incorporate newer models. The areas are general data needs for the existing models and improved formulations for the pathway models. It is recommended that priorities be set by NRC staff to guide selection of the most useful improvements in a cost-effective manner. Suggestions are made based on relatively easy and inexpensive changes, and longer-term more costly studies. In the short term, there are several improved model formulations that could be applied to the GENII suite of codes to make them more generally useful. ??? Implementation of the separation of the translocation and weathering processes ??? Implementation of an improved model for carbon-14 from non-atmospheric sources ??? Implementation of radon exposure pathways models ??? Development of a KML processor for the output report generator module data that are calculated on a grid that could be superimposed upon digital maps for easier presentation and display ??? Implementation of marine mammal models (manatees, seals, walrus, whales, etc.). Data needs in the longer term require extensive (and potentially expensive) research. Before picking any one radionuclide or food type, NRC staff should perform an in-house review of current and anticipated environmental analyses to select ???dominant??? radionuclides of interest to allow setting of cost-effective priorities for radionuclide- and pathway-specific research. These include ??? soil-to-plant uptake studies for oranges and other citrus fruits, and ??? Development of models for evaluation of radionuclide concentration in highly-processed foods such as oils and sugars. Finally, renewed studies of radionuclide cleanup in various modern types of municipal water treatment facilities such as advanced filtration or reverse-osmosis processes may be performed without development of any new or costly experimental facilities.