Radiobiological shot noise explains Three Mile Island biodosimetry indicating nearly 1,000 mSv exposures.

摘要: The 1979 accident at the Three Mile Island nuclear power station in Pennsylvania released about 22 million Curies of xenon-133 into environment. Because physical dosimetry indicated exposures to nearby population less than 2 mSv, discernible impacts health exposed are not generally believed have resulted. However, there is contrary evidence, including especially results biodosimetry via cytogenetic analysis using FISH method. This report examines discrepancy between and biodosimetry, which among small number persons examined 600 900 mSv. paradox reveals a fundamental error physics body knowledge: definition energy imparted tissue, e, fails properly account for temporal distribution ionization products resulting from dilute contamination with an internally incorporated beta-emitting radionuclide. Application century-old result describing “shot noise” electronic system repairs deficiency. Xe-133 concentration tissue those individuals most intense portion radioactive plume TMI facility shown been on order 0.1 μCi/l, persisting multiple hours. Shot noise reference doses range 820 1,700 mSv follow, consistent biodosimetric analysis. finding should motivate comprehensive re-evaluation conventional understanding station, regarding its impact upon surrounding area.