A combined study of gamma spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy reveals persistent anthropogenic radioactive pollution on Deception Island, Antarctica

A comprehensive measurement of the concentrations of natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in soil, water, and air was carried out during the austral summer Antarctic campaign 2018-2019 in different locations around the Spanish Research Station Gabriel de Castilla (Deception Island, South Shetland Islands, Antarctica). Limited information is available on radionuclide contamination in the Antarctic region. This study was conducted to evaluate Deception Island's capacity to remove and self-clean its environment. For this reason, samples from soil, water, and air were collected and analysed by gamma spectrometry, inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, and inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. The obtained results revealed significant levels of 210Pb and anthropogenic 137Cs, in soil samples close to old human settlements and facilities. In terms of water samples, although more renovation was expected than Antarctic soil, human impact was confirmed again since significant levels of both anthropogenic radionuclides, 137Cs and 60Co, are still detectable in old hunting areas. Air quality studies are not totally conclusive because the obtained results are significantly higher than those previously reported, a fact that potentially points to resuspension processes.

Automated summary

This study conducted a comprehensive measurement of natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in soil, water, and air in different locations around Deception Island in Antarctica. The results revealed significant levels of 210Pb and anthropogenic 137Cs in soil samples near old human settlements and facilities, as well as detectable levels of 137Cs and 60Co in water samples from old hunting areas. The findings also suggested potential resuspension processes based on higher-than-expected air quality results.