Radioecological Studies of the Kaji-Sai Tailings Dam
摘要
The article presents the results of measuring the gamma radiation exposure dose rate in the territory of the Kaji-Sai natural and anthropogenic uranium province before and after reclamation. Prior to the reclamation of soil-covered ash dumps and tailings in the Kaji-Sai area, exposure dose rates of gamma radiation averaged between 30 and 60 µR/h. In the industrial zone (with a local maximum of 140 µR/h), the activity levels of 210Pb and 226Ra were significantly elevated (210Pb—12,121 ± 204 и 226Ra—10,643 ± 75). According to the study, there were zones with abnormally high exposure dose rates ranging from 600 to 1500 µR/h (up to 15 µSv/h). After reclamation, the background radiation levels decreased to within the normal range (0.18–0.28 µSv/h), posing no environmental threat. As part of the program “Reclamation of Territories of EurAsEC Member States Affected by Uranium Production”, the Kaji-Sai tailings site has been fully reclaimed and secured. The measures implemented have significantly contributed to enhancing radiation safety in the Issyk-Kul region.