Airborne gamma-ray emitters from Fukushima detected in New York State

An air-sampling network that operates continuously as part of New York State's environmental surveillance program collected radionuclides emitted as a result of the Fukushima nuclear accident. Samples were collected, typically for 7 days each, by drawing similar to 600 m(3) of air through a particulate-collecting filter followed in series by a canister containing activated charcoal. Additional air sampling was implemented at similar to 3-day intervals at two locations. Gamma-ray spectroscopy was used to confirm the detection of I-131, Cs-137, Cs-134, and Be-7 in the particulate phase at all sites, with maximum concentrations near 1,260, 160, 160, and 5,200 mu Bq/m(3), respectively. Gas-phase I-131, collected on activated charcoal, exhibited a maximum concentration of 3,400 mu Bq/m(3) at the sites. Assessment of radionuclide levels in the air samples suggests that there were minimal health impacts from the airborne radionuclides as the activities contributed an insignificant amount to the annual human dose.