To develop accurate monitoring techniques for the radioactive emissions from new types of nuclear facilities, it is necessary to characterize those emissions as completely as possible. The first facility selected was a mixed-oxide fuel fabrication plant. In-stack, standard hi-vol, and special ultrahigh volume air samplers were used to collect particulate samples at the Babcock and Wilcox plant in Parks Township, Pennsylvania. The number of radioactive particles emitted, the particle sizes, plutonium and uranium isotopic content, and the concentration of other materials were determined. These characteristics are used to propose an appropriate air-monitoring technique for facilities of this type. (Color illustrations reproduced in black and white)

Prepared by Environmental Monitoring and Support Laboratory, Office of Research and Development, Environmental Protection Agency, under element no. INE625. Includes bibliographical references (pages 26-27).