ML13142A517

Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report 2012. Part 1 of 2

ML13142A517
Person / Time
Site:	Susquehanna
Issue date:	04/30/2013
From:	Riley H Susquehanna
To:	Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation
References
Download: ML13142A517 (54)

Text

2012 ANNU Annual Radiological Environmental

SUSQUEHANNA STEAM ELECTRIC STATION UNITS 1 and 2 Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report 2012 Prepared by:

H. L. Riley,/Sený Ha-hý Physic*--

Reviewed by:

D. W. Miller, Chemistry Support Supervisor Approved by:

D. R. D'Angelo, - Plant Chemistry / Environmental PPL Susquehanna, LLC 769 Salem Boulevard Berwick, Pennsylvania 18603

Attachment to PLA-7002 Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report for PPL Susquehanna, LLC Units 1 and 2

TABLE OF CONTENTS SUM M ARY AN D CON CLU SION S ........................................................................................ 1 IN TR OD U CTIO N ............................................................................................................ 6 AMBIENT RADIATION M ONITORING ......................................................................... 17 AQUATIC PATHW AY MONITORING ............................................................................ 21 ATMOSPHERIC PATHWAY MONITORING ................................................................ 32 TERRESTRIAL PATHWAY MONITORING .................................................................. 36 GROUND W ATER M ONITORING .................................................................................. 41 REF ERE NC E S ........................................................................................................................ 46 APPENDICES A. 2012 REMP SAMPLE COLLECTION, ANALYSIS TYPE, A-1 ANALYTICAL METHODS, PROGRAM CHANGES AND EXCEPTIONS B. 2012 REMP MONITORING SCHEDULE (SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS) B-1 C. 2012 REMP MONITORING LOCATION DESCRIPTIONS C-1 D. 2012 LAND USE CENSUS RESULTS D-1 E. INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK E-1 F. INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK F-1 G. 2012 SSES REMP

SUMMARY

OF DATA G-1 H. COMPARISON OF INDICATOR AND CONTROL 2012 H-1 REMP ANNUAL MEANS FOR SELECTED MEDIA ANALYSIS RESULTS WITH MEANS FROM PREOPERATIONAL AND PRIOR OPERATIONAL PERIODS I. SPECIFIC ANALYSIS RESULTS TABULATED BY MEDIA I-1 AND SAMPLING PERIOD J. PERFORMANCE

SUMMARY

FOR THE RADIOANALYSES OF J-1 SPIKED ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLE MEDIA - 2012

LIST OF FIGURES Figure Numbers Title Page

1. Exposure Pathways to Humans 10

2. 2012 Direct Radiation Monitoring Locations within One Mile 11

3. 2012 Direct Radiation Monitoring Locations from One to Five Miles 12

4. 2012 Direct Radiation Monitoring Locations Greater than Five 13 Miles

5. 2012 Environmental Sampling Locations within One Mile 14

6. 2012 Environmental Sampling Locations from One to Five Miles 15

7. 2012 Environmental Sampling Locations Greater than Five Miles 16

8. Ambient Radiation Levels Based on Environmental Dosimetry Data 20

9. Tritium Activity in Surface Water 30

10. Gross Beta Activity in Drinking Water 31

11. Gross Beta Activity in Air Particulates 35

12. Iodine- 131 Activity in Milk 40

13. Annual Average Tritium Concentration in Precipitation, Perimeter 45 Drain, Surface Water versus Groundwater 0

ii

LIST OF TABLES Table Numbers Title Page Al Source of REMP Data for Monitoring Year 2012 A-2 A2 TRM Sampling Deviations A-5 A3 Non-TRM Sampling Occurrences A-7 A4 Equipment Operability Trending A-11 BI Annual Analytical Schedule for 2012 B-2 C1 OSLD Locations for 2012 C-2 C2 Sampling Locations for 2012 C-7 DI Nearest Residence, Garden, and Dairy Animal for 2012 D-3 G Summary of Data for 2012 G-3 H1 Ambient Radiation Levels as Measured by OSLDs H-3 H2 "Intentionally Deleted" H3 Surface Water Iodine- 131 Activities (low level analyses H-3 discontinued in 2009)

H4 Surface Water Tritium Activities H-3 H5 "Intentionally Deleted" H6 Drinking Water Gross Beta Activities H-3 H7 Drinking Water Tritium Activities H-4 H8 Fish Potassium-40 Activities H-4 H9 Sediment Potassium-40 Activities H-4 HlO Sediment Radium-226 Activities H-4 Hi1 Sediment Thorium-228 Activities H-4 iii

LIST OF TABLES Table Numbers Title Page H12 Sediment Cesium- 137 Activities H-5 H13 Air Particulate Gross Beta Activities H-5 H14 Air Particulate Beryllium-7 Activities H-5 H15 Soil Potassium-40 Activities H-6 H16 Soil Radium-226 Activities H-6 H17 Soil Thorium-228 Activities H-6 H18 Soil Cesium-137 Activities H-6 H19 Milk Potassium-40 Activities H-7 H20 Ground Water Tritium Activities H-7 I-i Environmental Thermoluminescent Dosimtery Results 1-3 1-2 Tritium and Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Surface Water 1-6 1-3 Iodine- 131 Analyses of Surface Water (discontinued in 2009) 1-9 1-4 Gross Beta, Tritium, Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Drinking 1-10 Water 1-5 Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Fish I-11 1-6 Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Shoreline Sediment 1-12 1-7 Tritium and Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Ground Water 1-13 1-8 Gross Beta Analyses of Air Particulate Filters 1-15 1-9 Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Composited Air Particulate 1-17 Filters I-10 Iodine- 131 and Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Milk 1-18 1-11 Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Soil 1-22 iv

LIST OF TABLES Table Numbers Title Page 1-12 Gamma Spectroscopic Analyses of Food Products (Fruits and 1-23 Vegetables) 1-13 Typical Minimum Detectable Concentrations of Nuclides Searched 1-24 for but not found by Gamma Spectrometry in the Vicinity of SSES J-1 Environmental Resource Associates (ERA) Proficiency Testing J-4 Program - 2012 J-2 Analytics Environmental Radioactivity Cross Check Program -2012 J-5 Teledyne Quality Control Spike Program J-3 PPL REMP Laboratory Spike Program Analytics Environmental J-8 Radioactivity Cross Check Program J-4 DOE - MAPEP Mixed Analyte Performance Evaluation Program J-12 V

SUMMARY

AND CONCLUSIONS Radiological Dose Impact This report on the Radiological of SSES had no adverse radiological Environmental Monitoring Program impact on the health and safety of the covers the year 2012. public or the environment.

During that period, 1084 samples were The total whole body dose from both collected at 57 sampling locations. ingested radionuclides and direct Additionally, 228 optically stimulated radiation from SSES operations is luminescence dosimeters (OSLD) direct negligible compared to the public's 620 radiation measurements were performed milliremryear exposure from natural at 57 locations around the site. background radiation, medical irradiation, and radiation from In assessing all the data gathered and consumer products.

comparing with SSES pre-operational data, it was concluded that the operation The following graph compares public dose from SSES operation to that from other sources of radioactivity and radiation.

COMPARISON OF PERCENT OF AVERAGE ANNUAL PUBLIC EFFECTIVE DOSE-EQUIVALENT FROM OTHER SOURCES WITH WHOLE-BODY DOSE FROM THE SSES (NCRP REPORT NO. 160-2009)

Natural Background Consumer 50% Products 2%

SSES

<0. 10% .1Medical 48.0%

Report 1 2012 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 1

Summary and Conclusions Ambient Gamma Radiation Fish samples were analyzed for concentrations of gamma emitting Environmental direct radiation nuclides. Concentrations of naturally measurements were performed quarterly occurring K-40 were consistent with on and around the SSES site using those detected in previous years. No OSLDs. fission or activation products were detected in fish.

The maximum direct radiation dose from SSES operation to a member of Sediment samples were analyzed for the public was approximately 7.21E-01 concentrations of gamma emitting mrem for all of 2012. This dose nuclides. Concentrations of naturally represents approximately 2.88% of the occurring K-40, radium-226, and 25-mrem whole-body SSES Technical actinium-thorium-228 were found Requirements (TRO 3.11.3) limit for all consistent with those detected in SSES sources of radioactivity and previous years. Cesium-137 was radiation. detected in sediment and determined to be residual fallout from atmospheric Aquatic Environment nuclear weapons testing in the 1940s through the 1970s and was not Surface water samples were analyzed attributable to station operations. No for concentrations of tritium, and fission or reactor byproducts were gamma emitting nuclides. Drinking detected in sediment.

water samples were analyzed for concentrations of gross beta, tritium and gamma emitting nuclides. Gross beta activities detected in drinking water Atmospheric Environment were consistent with those reported in previous years. Air particulate samples were analyzed for concentrations of gross beta and Tritium activity attributable to SSES gamma emitting nuclides. Cosmogenic operation was detected in the aquatic Be-7 was detected at levels consistent pathway to man. The maximum dose with those detected in previous years.

from the ingestion of tritium was estimated at the nearest downriver Air iodine samples were analyzed for municipal water supplier via the concentrations of iodine- 131. All results drinking water pathway and near the were less than the MDC.

outfall of the SSES discharge to the Susquehanna River via the fish Terrestrial Environment pathway. The maximum whole body and organ dose due to tritium identified Soil samples were analyzed for via REMP samples is approximately concentrations of gamma emitting 1.32E-03 mremryear. This dose is less nuclides. Cesium-137 was observed in 1 than one-tenth of one percent of the of 4 soil samples and attributed to non-dose guidelines stated in 10 CFR 50, SSES sources (residual fallout from Appendix I. atmospheric weapons testing).

Concentrations of naturally occurring 2 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

Summary and Conclusions K-40 were consistent with those detected in previous years.

Concentrations of naturally occurring actinium-thorium-228 and radium-226 were consistent with those of previous years.

Cow milk samples were analyzed for concentrations of iodine- 131 as well as other gamma emitting nuclides. All iodine results were less than the MDC.

Concentrations of naturally occurring K-40, and thorium-228 were consistent with those detected in previous years.

No fission or activation products were detected.

Potatoes and field corn which were irrigated with Susquehanna River water downstream of the SSES were sampled.

These food products were sampled during the harvest season and analyzed for concentrations of gamma emitting nuclides. The concentration of naturally occurring K-40 was found consistent with those in previous years.

No fission or activation products were detected.

Ground Water Ground water samples were analyzed for concentrations of tritium and gamma emitting nuclides. Tritium was observed in 9 of 60 samples slightly above analysis MDC's in 2012. The source of the tritium is due to recaptured tritium from routine airborne effluent releases from Susquehanna operations and subsequent precipitation washout and infiltration into groundwater. This tritiated precipitation makes its way into surface water and soil where it eventually seeps into shallow ground water. No fission or activation products were detected.

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 3

Summary and Conclusions Relative Radionuclide Activity Levels in Selected Media TERRESTRIAL PATHWAY Some media monitored in the environment are significant for the PERCENT TOTAL numbers of gamma-emitting GAMMA ACTIVITY radionuclides routinely measured at levels exceeding analysis MDCs. SOIL Sediment in the aquatic pathway and soil in the terrestrial pathway are two Natural, such media. 99.6%

The following graphs show the relative activity contributions for the types of gamma-emitting radionuclides reported at levels above the analysis MDCs in sediment and soil at indicator locations during 2012.

Manmade: non --

\

AQUATIC PATHWAY SSES, 0.4% Manmade:

SSES, 0.0%

PERCENT TOTAL GAMMA ACTIVITY El SEDIMENT Naturally occurring radionuclides T Natural, 99.9%

accounted for over 99% of the gamma-emitting activity in both sediment and soil in 2012. Man-made radionuclides of SSES origin accounted for 0.0% of the gamma-emitting activity in sediment and soil during 2012.

Manmade: non-!

SSES, 0.1% \- Manmade:

SSES, 0.0%

0 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 44 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

Summary and Conclusions Radionuclides Contributing to Dose from SSES Operation Of the two man-made radionuclides detected in the environment by the SSES REMP (H-3 and Cs-137), tritium is the only radionuclide attributable to SSES operation.

The whole body and organ dose to members of the public attributable to tritium identified in REMP blowdown samples was 1.32E-03 mrem.

Tritium was included in the dose calculation because it was identified in the REMP samples of water being discharged to the river. The concentration of tritium in the water and the volume of water discharged were used to determine the amount of tritium released. The presumed exposure pathways to the public from this radionuclide were drinking water taken from the Susquehanna River at Danville, PA, and eating fish caught near the SSES discharge to the river.

Dose from ground plane deposition (shoreline exposure) is not applicable because tritium does not emit gamma radiation and the beta radiation emitted by tritium is not sufficiently penetrating to reach an individual on the shore.

Report 5 2012 Environmental Monitoring Radiological Environmental 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report 5

0 INTRODUCTION Radioloiical Environmental Key objectives of the SSES REMP are Monitoring Prouram as follows:

(REMP)

" Document compliance with SSES The SSES is located on approximately REMP Technical Requirements an 1500-acre tract along the radiological environmental Susquehanna River, five miles northeast surveillances of Berwick in Salem Township, Luzeme County, Pennsylvania. The

• Verify proper implementation of area around the site is primarily rural, SSES radiological effluent controls consisting predominately of forest and agricultural lands. (More specific " Identify, measure, and evaluate information on the demography, trends of radionuclide hydrology, meteorology, and land use concentrations in environmental characteristics of the area in the vicinity pathways near SSES of the SSES can be found in the Environmental Report (Reference 1), " Assess impact of SSES Effluents on the Final Safety Analysis Report the environment and the public (Reference 2), and the Final Environmental Statement (Reference 3) PPL has maintained a Radiological for the SSES.) Environmental Monitoring Program (REMP) in the vicinity of the The SSES implements the REMP in Susquehanna Steam Electric Station accordance with Technical Units 1 and 2 since April, 1972, prior to Specifications, Technical Requirements construction of both units and ten years Manual and the Offsite Dose prior to the initial operation of Unit 1 in Calculation Manual, which are based on September, 1982. The purpose of the the design objectives in 10CFR Part 50 preoperational REMP (April, 1972 to Appendix I, Sections IV.B.2, IV.B.3, September, 1982) was to establish a and IV.C. baseline for radioactivity in the local The REMP supplements the results of environment that could be compared the radioactive effluent-monitoring with the radioactivity levels observed in program by verifying that the various environmental media measurable concentrations of throughout the operational lifetime of radioactive materials and levels of the SSES. This comparison facilitates radiation in the environment are not assessments of the radiological impact higher than expected on the basis of the of the SSES operation.

effluent measurements and modeling of the environment in the vicinity of the SSES.

6 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report Environmental Monitoring Radiological Environmental Report 6

Introduction PotentialExposure Pathways monitoring locations, called control and The three pathways through which indicator locations, were established to radioactive material may reach the further assist in assessing the impact of public from nuclear power plants are station operation. Control locations are the atmospheric, terrestrial, and aquatic located at sites where it is considered pathways. (Figure 1 depicts these unlikely that radiation or radioactive pathways for the intake of radioactive material from normal station operation materials.) would be detected. Indicator locations are sited where it is expected that Mechanisms by which people may be radiation and radioactive material that exposed to radioactivity and radiation in might originate from the station would the environment vary with the pathway. be most readily detectable.

Three mechanisms by which a member of the public has the potential to be Control locations for the atmospheric exposed to radioactivity or radiation and terrestrial pathways are more than from nuclear power plants such as the 10 miles from the station. Preferably, SSES are as follows: the controls also are in directions from the station less likely to be exposed to

" inhalation (breathing) wind blowing from the station than are the indicator locations. Control locations for the aquatic pathway, the

• ingestion (eating and drinking), and Susquehanna River, are upstream of the station's discharge to the river.

• whole body irradiation directly from the deposition of nuclides on Indicator locations are selected the ground or from immersion in primarily on the basis of proximity to the radioactive effluents.

the station, although factors such as meteorology, topography, and sampling REMP Scope practicality also are considered.

The scope of the SSES REMP was Indicator locations for the atmospheric developed based on the NRC's and terrestrial pathways are typically Radiological Assessment Branch less than 10 miles from the station.

Technical Position on radiological Most often, they are within 5 miles of environmental monitoring, as described the station. Indicator locations in the in Revision 1,November 1979 Susquehanna River are downstream of (Reference 4). However, the REMP the station's discharge. Monitoring conducted by PPL for the SSES exceeds results from indicator locations are some of the monitoring suggested by compared with results from control the NRC's branch technical position, in locations. These comparisons are made terms of the number of monitoring to discern any differences in the levels locations, the frequency of certain and/or types of radioactive material monitoring, the types of analyses and/or radiation that might exist required for the samples, and the between indicators and controls and that achievable analysis sensitivities. could be attributable to the station.

During the operational period of the SSES, two different categories of 7 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

Introduction In 2012, the SSES REMP collected as fallout from previous nuclear 1084 samples at 57 locations. In weapons tests and medical wastes, also addition, the REMP monitors ambient make differentiation between SSES radiation levels using optically radiation and naturally occurring stimulated luminescence dosimeters radioactive material difficult. This (OSLDs) at 57 indicator and control effort is further complicated by the locations, resulting in 228 radiation natural variations that typically occur level measurements in 2012. The media from both monitoring locations and monitored and analyses performed are with time at the same locations.

summarized in the table below.

Figures 2 through 7 display the REMP OSLD and sampling locations in the The naturally occurring radionuclides vicinity of the SSES. Appendix C potassium-40, beryllium-7, provides directions, distances, and a actinium-228, thorium-228, and tritium brief description of each of the locations are routinely observed in certain in Figures 2 through 7. environmental media. Potassium-40 has been observed in all monitored media and is routinely seen at readily detectable levels in such media as milk, REMP MonitoringSensitivity fish, fruits and vegetables. Seasonal variations in beryllium-7 in air samples are regularly observed. Man-made Detection of radiation and radioactive radionuclides, such as cesium-137 left material from the SSES in the over from nuclear weapons testing are environment is complicated by the often observed as well. In addition, the presence of naturally occurring radionuclide tritium, produced by both radiation and radioactive materials from cosmic radiation interactions in the both terrestrial and cosmic sources. upper atmosphere as well as man-made Man-made radiation and radioactive (nuclear weapons), is another material from non-SSES sources, such radionuclide typically observed.

SSES REMP Type of Monitoring Media Monitored Gross Beta Activity Drinking Water and Air Particulates Gamma-Emitting Radionuclide Activities All Media Tritium Activity All Waters Iodine-131 Activity (by Isotopic Analysis except All Media Milk by Low Level Analysis)

Gamma Radiation Exposure (by OSLD) Ambient Radiation Levels 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 8

Introduction Radioactivity levels in environmental media are usually so low that their measurements, even with state-of-the-art measurement methods, typically have significant degrees of uncertainty associated with them (Reference 5). As a result, expressions are often used when referring to these measurements that convey information about the levels being measured relative to the measurement sensitivities. Terms such as "minimum detectable concentration" (MDC) are used for this purpose. The MDC is an "a priori" estimate of the capability for detecting an activity concentration by a given measurement system, procedure, and type of sample.

Counting statistics of the appropriate instrument background are used to compute the MDC for each specific analysis. The formulas used to calculate MDCs may be found in procedures referenced in Appendix A.

The methods of measurement for sample radioactivity levels used by PPL's contracted REMP radioanalytical laboratories are capable of meeting the analysis sensitivity requirements found in the SSES Technical Requirements.

Monitoring Report 99 2012 Radiological Environmental 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

Exposure Pathway to V3 12 i I

Liquid Ic a 7 *l Effluent A

ct rradiadtion Fuel Transport

.0t~f N

mwb3ý L-Sw Ammm-Bý Figure 1

FIGURE 2 2012 DIRECT RADIATION MONITORING LOCATIONS O WITHIN ONE MILE 2ts 7e

-7S7-11ý

FIGURE 3 2012 DIRECT RADIATION MONITORING LOCATIONS FROM ONE TO FIVE MILES

FIGURE 4 2012 DIRECT RADIATION MONITORING LOCATIONS GREATER THAN FIVE MILES

FIGURE 5 2012 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING LOCATIONS WITHIN ONE MILE 0

FIGURE 6 2012 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING LOCATIONS FROM ONE TO FIVE MILES I

5sil--

I'll 4

~Q (1

FIGURE 7 2012 ENVIRONMENTAL SAMPLING LOCATIONS GREATER THAN FIVE MILES

Ambient Radiation Monitoring AMBIENT RADIATION MONITORING INTRODUCTION The SSES changed from using thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLDs) to optically stimulated luminescence dosimeters (OSLDs) in 2012 for measurement of ambient radiation levels in the environment. The OSL technology uses a detector material made of aluminum oxide crystals that measures direct radiation levels in the environment.

Interpretation of environmental OSLD results is described in PPL Nuclear Engineering Study, EC-ENVR-1012 (Revision 2, January 2013), per reference 12.

17 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report Environmental Monitoring Radiological Environmental Report 17

Ambient Radiation Monitoring Scope NRC Branch Technical Position on Radiological Monitoring (Revision 1, Direct radiation measurements were November 1979).

made using OSLDs. During 2012, the SSES REMP had 46 indicator, 6 special Monitoring Results interest and 5 control OSLD locations.

Refer to Table Cl and C2 for OSLD The OSLDs are exchanged quarterly by measurement locations. The OSLD SSES Health Physics and processed by locations are placed on and around the Landauer Dosimetry Lab in Glenwood, SSES site as follows: IL. Average quarterly ambient gamma radiation levels measured by A site boundary ring (i.e. an inner ring) environmental OSLDs are shown in the with at least 1 OSLD in each of the 16 bar graph below.

meteorological sectors, in the general area of the site boundary. Currently there are 30 locations. They are: (1S2, 2012 2S2, 2S3, 3S2, 3S3, 4S3, 4S6, 5S4, 5S7, REMP Quarterly TLD Averages 6S4, 6S9, 7S6, 7S7, 8S2, 8A3, 9S2, 20.0 9B1, 10S1, 10S2, 11S7, 12S1, 12S3, 18.0 12S7, 13S2, 13S5, 13S6, 14S5, 15S5, . 16.0 C- 14.0 16S 1 and 16S2) near and within the site 12.0 perimeter representing fence post doses 10.0 from a SSES release. 8.0 E 6.0 4.0 An outer distance ring with at least 1 2.0 0.0 OSLD in each of the 16 meteorological 1 2 3 4 sectors, in the 3 to 9 mile range from the site. Currently there are 16 Calendar Quarters IIndicator locations. They are: (1D5, 2F1, 3El, nControl 4E2, 5E2, 6El, 7E1, 8D3, 9D4, 10DI, The annual mean of all indicator llE1, 12D2, 13E4, 14D1, 15FI and locations in 2012 was 16.6 +/- 10.1 16F1). These OSLDs are located to mrem per standardized quarter. The measure possible exposure to close-in annual mean of the control locations in population. 2012 was 14.2 +/- 4.8 mrem per standardized quarter.

The balance of OSLD locations represent special interest areas such as Indicator environmental OSLD results population centers, schools, residences for 2012 were examined quarterly on an and control locations. Currently there individual location basis and compared are six special interest locations (6A4, with both current control location 15A3, 16A2, 8B2, 10B3 and 12E1) and results and preoperational data. Very 5 control locations (3G4, 4G 1, 7G1, small SSES exposure contributions 12G1 and 12G4). were identified during 2012 at nineteen onsite locations as follows: 1S2, 2S3, The specific locations were determined 4S3, 5S7, 6S4, 6S9, 7S6, 8S2, 9S2, according to the criteria presented in the 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report is 18 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

Ambient Radiation Monitoring 10S1, 10S2, 12S1, 12S3, 13S2, 13S5, 13S6, 15S5, 16S1, 16S2.

The highest, estimated, gamma radiation dose of 7.21E-01 mrem for 2012 was at location 9S2. It is assumed that the occupancy time for a member of the public is no more than twenty hours each calendar quarter at location 9S2. This dose is approximately 2.88 %

of the 25 mrem whole-body SSES Technical Requirements (TRO 3.11.3) limit for all SSES sources of radioactivity and radiation.

Refer to the following for results of OSLD measurements for 2012:

" Figure 8, trends quarterly direct radiation monitoring results for both preoperational and operational periods

" Appendix G, Table G Summary of Data Table, shows the averages for OSLD indicator and control locations for the entire year.

• Appendix H, Table H 1, shows a comparison of the 2012 mean indicator and control OSLD results with the means for the preoperational and operational periods at the SSES.

" Appendix I, Table I-1, shows OSLD results for all locations for each quarter of 2012.

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 19

FIGURE 8 - AMBIENT RADIATION LEVELS Dose Rate (mrem/STDQtr) BASED ON ENVIRONMENTAL DOSIMETRY DATA 50

- PRE OPERATIONAL OPERATIONAL 40 35 30 25 20 15 A Unit 1 10 Criticality 09/10/1982 Unit 2 Changed Criticality to OSLD 5 - 05/08/1984 01/18/12

/

1973 1975 1977 1979 1981 1983 1985 1987 1989 1991 1993 1995 1997 1999 2001 2003 2005 2007 2009 2011 2013

-Indicator - Control

Aquatic Pathway Monitoring 0 AQUATIC PATHWAY MONITORING INTRODUCTION No other fields within 10 miles In 2012 the SSES REMP monitored the downriver of Susquehanna SES were following media in the aquatic pathway: irrigated in 2012.

surface water, drinking water, fish, sediment, fruits and vegetables. Some The aquatic pathway in the vicinity of of the media (e.g., drinking water and the SSES is the Susquehanna River.

fish) provide information that can be Monitoring of all of the aquatic media, especially useful to the estimation of except drinking water, is conducted possible dose to the public from both downstream and upstream of the potentially ingested radioactivity, if location from which periodically detected. Other media, such as permitted SSES low-level radioactive sediment, can be useful for trending discharges enter the river. The radioactivity levels in the aquatic upstream monitoring locations serve as pathway, primarily because of their controls to provide data for comparison tendency to assimilate certain materials with downstream monitoring results.

that might enter the surface water to The potential exists for radioactive which they are exposed. The results material that might be present in SSES from monitoring all of these media airborne releases to enter the provide a picture of the aquatic pathway Susquehanna River upstream of the that is clearer than that which could be plant through either direct deposition obtained if one or more were not (e.g., settling or washout) or by way of included in the REMP. runoff from deposition on land adjacent to the river. However, direct deposition SSES Technical Requirements only and runoff are considered to be require that fruit and vegetables be insignificant as means of entry for sampled at locations irrigated by SSES radioactivity into the Susquehanna River water from points Susquehanna River when compared to downstream of the SSES discharge to liquid discharges under normal the River. The land use census conditions.

(Reference 11) conducted in 2012 identified two farms within 10 miles Lake Took-a-While (LTAW), which is downriver of PPL Susquehanna that located in PPL's Riverlands Recreation used Susquehanna River water for Area adjacent to the Susquehanna irrigation: Zehner Farm (location River, is also considered to be part of I1D 1, 3.3 miles SW) irrigated cabbage, the aquatic pathway for monitoring pumpkins and soy beans and Lupini purposes. Although it is not in a Farm - Mifflinville Field (location position to receive water discharged to 12F7, 8.3 miles WSW) irrigated the river from the SSES, it does receive potatoes and field corn. storm runoff from the SSES. The C-i Pond (5S 12) and the S-2 Pond (7S 12) are sedimentation ponds which also receive storm runoff from the site.

21 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report Environmental Monitoring Radiological Environmental Report 21

Aquatic Pathway Monitoring Storm runoff from the SSES site should Fish not normally contain any measurable Fish were sampled from the radioactivity from the plant. However, Susquehanna River in the spring and the SSES REMP, consistent with other fall of 2012, at one indicator location, aspects of aquatic monitoring and the IND, downstream of the SSES liquid REMP, in general, goes beyond its discharge to the River and one control requirements by monitoring LTAW, C- location, 2H, sufficiently upstream to 1 Pond (5S 12) and S-2 Pond (7S 12). essentially preclude the likelihood that fish caught there would spend any time below the SSES discharge. In addition, fish were also sampled in the fall from Scope PPL's Lake Took-a-While, location LTAW. This location is not Surface Water downstream of the SSES discharge. It Surface water was routinely sampled is sampled because of its potential for from the Susquehanna River at one receiving runoff from the SSES.

indicator location (6S5/Outfall Area) LTAW is considered an indicator and one control location (6S6/River location.

Water Intake Line) during 2012.

Sampling also took place at the Sediment following additional indicator locations: Sediment sampling was performed in the SSES discharge line to the river the spring and fall at indicator locations (2S7), Lake Took-A-While (LTAW), 7B and 12F and control location 2B on Peach Stand Pond (4S7), C-I Pond the Susquehanna River.

(5S12) and S-2 Pond (7S12).

Fruitsand Vegetables Drinking Water In 2012, potatoes and field corn were Drinking water samples were collected irrigated with Susquehanna River water at location 12H2, the Danville at indicator location 12F7. Cabbage, Municipal Water Authority's treatment pumpkins, and soy beans were also facility on the Susquehanna River, in irrigated with Susquehanna River water 2012. Treated water is collected from at indicator location 11D 1.

the end of the processing flowpath, representing finished water that is suitable for drinking. This is the nearest Sampling point downstream of the SSES discharge to the River at which drinking Surface Water water is obtained. No drinking water Weekly water samples were collected control location is sampled. For all at indicator location 6S5 for both intents and purposes, control surface biweekly and monthly compositing.

water sampling location (6S6) would be Location 6S5 was considered a backup suitable for comparison. for location 2S7 in the event that water could not be obtained from the automatic sampler at this location.

22 Radiological Environmental 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report Environmental Monitoring Report 22

Aquatic Pathway Monitoring Fish Routine samples for 6S5 were collected Fish were obtained by electrofishing.

from a boat, unless river conditions Electrofishing stuns the fish and allows prohibited boating. When this occurs, them to float to the surface so that those samples are collected from an alternate of the desired species and sufficient size shoreline site located below the can be sampled. Sampled fish include Susquehanna SES discharge diffuser. recreationally important species, such as The shoreline samples are collected largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, and approximately 100-150 yards down also channel catfish and shorthead river from the 6S5 site. redhorse. The fish are filleted and the edible portions are kept for analysis.

Indicator location 2S7, the SSES Cooling Tower Blowdown Discharge Sediment (CTBD) line, and control location 6S6, Shoreline sediment was collected to the SSES River Water Intake structure, depths of four feet of water.

were time -proportionally sampled using automatic continuous samplers. Fruitsand Vegetables The samplers were typically set to Potatoes and field corn grown at obtain 30-60 ml aliquots every 20-25 indicator location 122F7 were sampled minutes. Weekly, the water obtained by since they were irrigated with these samplers was retrieved for both Susquehanna river water. Cabbage, biweekly and monthly compositing. pumpkins and soy beans were also irrigated with Susquehanna River water The other surface water monitoring at indicator location 1IDI but were not locations, LTAW, Peach Stand Pond sampled at the wishes of the farm (4S7), C-I Pond (5S12) and S-2 Pond owner.

(7S 12) were grab sampled once each quarter.

Drinking Water Sample Preservation Treated water was time-proportionally and Analysis sampled by an automatic sampler. The sampler was typically set to obtain three Surface andDrinking Water 12-ml aliquots every twenty minutes. Surface water samples were analyzed Weekly, the water obtained by this monthly for gamma-emitting sampler was retrieved for monthly radionuclides and tritium. Drinking compositing. water samples were analyzed monthly for gross beta, gamma-emitting radionuclides, and tritium.

Sediment and Fish Fish are frozen until shipment. All samples are analyzed by gamma spectroscopy for the activities of any gamma emitting radionuclides that may be present.

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 23

Aquatic Pathway Monitoring the Susquehanna River to which the public does have access. However, currently there is no automatic Monitorin2 Results composite sampling of an indicator location on the Susquehanna River, so the CTBD line from the SSES is Surface Water included as an indicator monitoring Refer to the following for results of location in the radiological surface water analyses for 2012:

environmental monitoring program.

• Appendix G, Table G, shows a Most of the water entering the summary of the 2012 surface water Susquehanna River through the SSES data. CTBD line is simply water that was taken from the river upstream of the

" Appendix H, Table H 4, shows SSES, used for cooling purposes comparisons of tritium monitoring without being radioactively results against past years data. contaminated by SSES operation, and returned to the river. Batch discharges

• Appendix I, Table 1-2 shows of relatively small volumes of slightly specific results for tritium and radioactively contaminated water are gamma spectroscopic analyses of made to the river through the SSES surface water samples. CTBD at times throughout each year.

The water is released from tanks of The Nuclear Regulatory Commission radioactively contaminated water on (NRC) requires that averages of the site to the CTBD and mixes with the activity levels for indicator noncontaminated water already present environmental monitoring locations and in the CTBD. Flow rates from the tanks for control environmental monitoring containing radioactively contaminated locations of surface water, as well as water being discharged to the CTBD other monitored media, be reported vary based on the radioactivity level of annually. Data from the following six the batch release. In addition, the surface water monitoring locations were minimum flow rate for the returning averaged together as indicators for water in the CTBD is maintained at a reporting purposes: location (6S5) on flow rate of 5,000 gpm or higher.

the Susquehanna River downstream of These requirements are in place to the SSES, Lake-Took-a While (LTAW) ensure adequate dilution of adjacent to the river, and the SSES radioactively contaminated water in the cooling tower blowdown discharge CTBD prior to entering the river.

(CTBD) line to the river (2S7), and the Peach Stand Pond (4S7), C-1 Pond At the point that CTBD water enters the (5S12) and S-2 Pond (7S12). river, additional, rapid dilution of the discharged water by the river is Technically, the CTBD line is not part promoted by releasing it through a of the environment. The CTBD line is a diffuser. The diffuser is a large pipe below ground pipe to which the public with numerous holes in it that is has no access, contrary to the other positioned near the bottom of the river.

environmental monitoring locations on 24 2012 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report Environmental Monitoring Radiological Environmental Report 24

Aquatic Pathway Monitoring CTBD discharges exit the diffuser Surface Water Tritium through the many holes, enhancing the Quarterly samples from all surface mixing of the discharge and river water locations were analyzed for waters. The concentrations of concentrations of tritium activity contaminants are reduced significantly (Table 1-2 and Table G). Tritium was as the discharged water mixes with the detected in the indicator location above much larger flow of river water. The MDC. The 2012 indicator values ranged mean flow rate of the Susquehanna from -19.6 to 12,400 pCi/1 compared to River in 2012 was approximately -98.9 to 8,500 for 2011. Comparison of 4,920,000 gpm. The CTBD average the 2012 mean tritium activity of 1,090 flow during 2012 was 11,382 gpm. pCi/l for all indicator locations to the Based on the average river flow and the average of the annual preoperational average CTBD flow during 2012, liquid control mean of 171 pCi/1 indicates a discharges from the SSES blowdown contribution of tritium activity from the line were diluted by approximately a SSES.

factor of 432 after entering the river.

The amount of radioactively contaminated water being discharged is Refer to Figure 10 which trends tritium small. Nevertheless, sensitive analyses activity levels separately for surface of the water samples can often detect water indicator and control locations low levels of radioactivity in the CTBD from 1972 through 2012.

water following dilution. Though the levels of radioactivity measured in the CTBD water are generally quite low, The much higher levels of tritium they tend to be higher than those in the observed in the CTBD line (location river downstream of the SSES. 2S7), when averaged with the low levels from the downstream location 6S5 sample analysis results distort the When the radioactivity levels from the real environmental picture. The mean CTBD samples throughout the year are tritium activity level from indicator averaged with those obtained from location 6S5 for 2012 was 89.18 actual downstream monitoring pCi/liter, which is slightly greater than locations, the result is an overall the mean tritium activity of 52.8 pCi/l indicator location average that is too for the control location and is below the high to be representative of the actual annual preoperational control mean of average radioactivity levels of the 171 pCi/l.

downstream river water. As the following discussions are reviewed, Tritium activity levels reported for 2S7 consideration should be given to this are from the discharge line prior to inflation of average radioactivity levels dilution in the river. The highest from the inclusion of CTBD (location quarterly average tritium activity 2S7) results in the indicator data. reported at 2S7 during 2012 was approximately 5,501 pCi/liter for the second quarter. This is well below the NRC Reporting Levels for quarterly average activity levels of 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 25 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

Aquatic Pathway Monitoring 20,000 pCi/liter when a drinking water

• Appendix H, Table H 6 and H 7, pathway exists or 30,000 pCi/liter when show comparisons of gross beta and no drinking water pathway exists. tritium activity in drinking water for 2012 against past years' data.

The tritium activity reported in the CTBD line from location 2S7 is

• Appendix I, Table 1-4 shows attributable to the SSES. Refer to the specific results of gross beta, "Dose from the Aquatic Pathway" tritium and gamma spectroscopic discussion at the end of this section for analyses of drinking water additional information on the projected dose to the population from tritium and Drinking Water Gross Beta other radionuclides in the aquatic Monthly samples from the 12H2 pathway attributable to the SSES. drinking water location were analyzed for concentrations of gross beta activity No gamma-emitting radionuclides were (Table 1-4). Beta activity was detected detected in surface water samples above in samples from the 12H2 location MDC, with the exception of naturally above MDC for 2012. The 2012 values occurring K-40, Ra-226 and Th-228. ranged from -.07 to 3.81 pCi/1 compared to -.06 to 7.98 for 2011.

Drinking Water Drinking water was monitored during Gross beta activity has been monitored 2012 at the Danville Water Company's in drinking water since 1977. Gross facility 26 miles WSW of the SSES on beta activity is typically measured at the Susquehanna River at location levels exceeding the MDCs in drinking 12H2. water samples. The 2012 mean gross beta activity of 1.9 pCi/l is slightly There are no known drinking water below the mean gross beta activity of supplies in Pennsylvania on the 2.26 for 2011 and below the Susquehanna River upstream of the preoperational (1977-81) values of 2.2 SSES and therefore no drinking water to 3.2 pC/l.

control monitoring locations. Danville drinking water analysis results may be compared to the results for surface Drinking Water Tritium water control monitoring locations.

Monthly samples from the 12H2 drinking water location were analyzed Refer to the following for results of for concentrations of tritium activity surface water analyses for 2012:

(Table 1-4). Tritium activity was not detected above MDC in any of the 12

• Figure 11 trends gross beta activity drinking water samples in 2012. The levels for drinking water location 2012 values ranged from 36.3 to 138 12H2 from 1977 through 2012. pCi/l compared to -32.5 to 104 for 2011.

" Appendix G, Table G, shows a summary of the 2012 drinking water The 2012 mean tritium activity of 69.6 data. pCi/l for drinking water was higher than the mean tritium activity of 15.6 pCi/l 26 Radiological Environmental 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report Environmental Monitoring Report 26

Aquatic Pathway Monitorin2 for 2011 and is less than the The only gamma-emitting radionuclide preoperational (1977-8 1) values of 101 reported in excess of analysis MDCs in to 194 pCi/1. fish during 2012 was naturally occurring potassium-40. The 2012 Drinking Water Gamma indicator values ranged from 3,605 to Spectroscopic 5,299 pCi/kg compared to 3,080 to No gamma-emitting radionuclides 4,370 for 2011. The 2012 indicator and attributable to SSES were detected in control means for the activity levels of drinking water samples above the potassium-40 in fish were 4,348 pCi/kg MDC. and 4,184 pCi/kg, respectively.

Naturally occurring potassium-40 in fish is not attributable to the liquid discharges from the SSES to the Fish Susquehanna River.

Refer to the following for results of fish analyses for 2012:

" Table G shows a summary of the Sediment 2012 fish data. Refer to the following for results of

• Table H 8 shows comparisons of sediment analyses for 2012:

potassium-40 monitoring results against past years' data.

• Appendix G, Table G, shows a

• Table 1-5 shows specific results of summary of the 2012 sediment data.

gamma spectroscopic analyses of fish.

• Appendix H, Tables H 9, 10, 11 and 12, shows comparisons of potassium-40, radium-226, thorium-Fish Gamma Spectroscopic 228, and cesium- 137 monitoring Semi-annual samples from the indicator results against past years' data.

(IND) and control (2H) fish locations were analyzed for concentrations of

• Appendix I, Table 1-6 shows gamma activity (Table 1-5). specific results of gamma spectroscopic analyses of sediment Four species of fish were sampled at samples.

each of one indicator location and one control location on the Susquehanna River in spring 2012 and again in fall Sediment Gamma Spectroscopic 2012. The species included the Semi-annual samples from all sediment following: smallmouth bass, channel locations were analyzed for catfish and shorthead redhorse. concentrations of gamma activity In addition, one largemouth bass and a (Table 1-6).

rainbow trout were sampled from PPL's Naturally occurring Potassium-40, LTAW in October 2012. A total of 14 Radium-226, Actinium228, Thorium-fish were collected and analyzed. 228, and Beryllium-7 were measured at activity levels above MDCs in some shoreline sediment samples in 2012.

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 27 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

Aquatic Pathway Monitoring The naturally occurring radionuclides in grown and irrigated using Susquehanna sediment are not attributable to the river water at location 11 D 1,but were liquid discharges from the SSES to the not collected due to wishes of the Susquehanna River. Zehner Farm not to participate in the REMP program.

Cesium-137 was measured at activity However, the potato and field corn levels slightly above MDCs in 3 of 6 samples were collected and analyzed for shoreline sample analyses in 2012. The concentrations of gamma emitting 2012 indicator and control means for nuclide activity (Table 1-12).

cesium- 137 activity in sediment were Potassium-40 was the only gamma-45.9 pCi/kg and 117 pCi/kg, emitting radionuclide measured in fruits respectively. The 2012 indicator and and vegetables at an activity level above control means are comparable to 46 MDC during 2012. The average pCi/kg and 61.1 pCi/kg for 2011 values. potassium-40 concentration for the These samples are within the annual indicator sample was 4,000 pCi/kg mean for all preoperational years of compared to 2,760 pCi/kg for 2011.

station operation. Cesium-137 has been observed in previous operational years Potassium-40 in fruits and vegetables is in the 80 to 170 pCi/kg range, and is not attributable to SSES operation determined to be fallout from because it is a naturally occurring atmospheric nuclear weapons testing in radionuclide.

the 1940s through 1970s. No cesium-137 was reported as being released in Dose from the Aquatic liquid effluents in 2012. The highest cesium-137 concentration of 157 pCi/kg Pathway was detected in the 2B control location (at 95% confidence level), during the Tritium was the only radionuclide fourth quarter of 2012. identified in 2012 by the SSES REMP in the aquatic pathway that was attributable to SSES operation and also Fruits and Vegetables included in the pathway to man. The Refer to the following for results of identified cesium- 137 in sediment is fruits and vegetables for SSES:

determined to be residual fallout from atmospheric weapons testing in the

" Appendix G, Table G, shows a 1940s through 1970s.

summary of the 2012 fruits and vegetables. The total tritium activity released from the SSES for the year was estimated

" Appendix I, Table 1-12 shows based on REMP monitoring results and specific gamma spectroscopic used in projecting maximum doses to analysis of fruit/vegetable samples. the public. The annual mean activity level of tritium in the CTBD line Fruit/Vegetable Gamma (monitoring location 2S7) for 2012 was Spectroscopic 3,366 pCi/l. The annual mean activity Potato and field corn samples were of tritium for control location 6S6 was collected in 2012 from location 12F7. 52.8 pCi/l. For the purpose of Cabbage, pumpkin and soybeans were performing the dose calculation, tritium Monitoring Report 28 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Radiological Environmental Report 28

Aquatic Pathway Monitoringe was assumed to be present continuously in the CTBD line throughout 2012 at a level equivalent to the annual mean activity of 3,366 pCi/1. The annual mean flow rate for the CTBD line was 11,382 gpm.

Using the proper unit conversions and multiplying 11,382 gpm times 3,366 pCi/1 yields a value of 76.4 curies for the estimate of tritium released from SSES during 2012. This estimate is 1.8 curies more than the 74.6 curies of tritium determined by effluent monitoring that was released to the river by the SSES in 2012.

Given the total tritium activity released, the maximum whole-body and organ doses to hypothetical exposed individuals in four age groups (adult, teenager, child, and infant) were determined according to the methodology of the Offsite Dose Calculation Manual using the RETDAS computer program. This is in accordance with SSES Technical Requirement 3.11.4.1.3.

The maximum offsite dose from the aquatic pathway of exposure was calculated using annual average values for Susquehanna River flow, cooling tower blowdown flow and the annual mean tritium concentration in the cooling tower blowdown line. The maximum whole body and organ dose from the aquatic pathway were each calculated as 1.32E-3 mrem.

Radiological Environmental 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report 29 29 2012 Environmental Monitoring Report

FIGURE 10 - TRITIUM ACTIVITY IN SURFACE WATER pCi/Liter 3500 2500 1500 500

-500

,ýý e e e "e", .e,e e e e e 111,61,10 e e "P%"*e If00 e 41 4`0

-Indieator -Control

0 S FIGURE 11 - GROSS BETA ACTIVITY IN DRINKING WATER pCi/Liter 10 9

PREOPERATIONAL OPERATIONAL 8-7 6

5 4

3 2 Uniti1 Criticality 09/10/1982 Unit 2 1 Criticality 05/08/1984 0

Atmospheric Pathway Monitoring-ATMOSPHERIC PATHWAY MONITORING INTRODUCTION Sampling and Analysis Atmospheric monitoring by the SSES Air REMP involves the sampling and The SSES REMP monitored the air at analysis of air. Because the air is the first medium that SSES vent releases four indicator locations and two control locations during 2012. The SSES enter in the pathway to man, it is fundamental that it be monitored. Technical Requirements require Mechanisms do exist for the transport monitoring at only a total of five sites.

of airborne contaminants to other media Monitoring is required at three locations at the SSES site boundary in different and their concentration in them. For sectors with the greatest predicted example, airborne contaminants may move to the terrestrial environment and sensitivities for the detection of SSES concentrate in milk. Concentrations of releases (3S2, 12S1, 13S6). Monitoring radionuclides can make the sampling must be performed at the community in and analysis of media like milk more the vicinity of the SSES with the sensitive approaches for the detection of greatest predicted sensitivity (12El). A radionuclides, such as iodine- 131, in the control location that is expected to be unaffected by any routine SSES releases pathway to man than the monitoring of must be monitored (6G1, 8G1).

air directly. (PPL also samples milk; refer to the Terrestrial Pathway Monitoring section of this report.) Airborne particulates were collected on glass fiber filters using low volume Nevertheless, the sensitivity of air monitoring can be optimized by the (typically 2.0 to 2.5 cfm sampling rates) air samplers that run continuously. Air proper selection of sampling techniques iodine samples were collected on and the choice of the proper types of charcoal cartridges, placed downstream analyses for the collected samples.

of the particulate filters.

Scope Particulate filters and charcoal cartridges were exchanged weekly at Air samples were collected on the air monitoring sites. Sampling times particulate filters and charcoal were recorded on elapsed-time meters.

cartridges at indicator locations 3S2, Air sample volumes for particulate 12S1, 13S6 and 12E1, and control filters and charcoal cartridges were locations 6G1 and 8G1. measured with dry-gas meters.

Air filters were analyzed weekly for gross beta activity, then composited quarterly and analyzed for the activities of gamma-emitting radionuclides. The charcoal cartridges were analyzed weekly for iodine- 131.

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 32

Atmospheric Pathway Monitoyiniz Monitoring Results Gross beta activity is normally measured at levels in excess of the Air Particulates analysis MDCs on the fiber filters. The Refer to the following for results of air highest gross beta activity levels that particulate analyses for 2012:

have been measured during the operational period of the SSES were

" Figure 12 trends gross beta activities obtained in 1986 following the separately for air particulate Chernobyl accident in the former Soviet indicator and control locations from Union and 2011 Dai-ichi plant incident 1974 through 2012.

in Fukushima Japan.

" Appendix G, Table G shows a Note that prior to SSES operation, summary of the 2012 air particulate before 1982, the unusually high gross data. beta activities were generally attributable to fallout from atmospheric

• Appendix H, Tables H 13 and 14 nuclear weapons tests. Typical gross show comparisons of gross beta and beta activities measured on air Beryllium-7 monitoring results particulate filters are the result of against past years' data. naturally occurring radionuclides associated with dust particles suspended

" Appendix I, Table 1-8, shows in the sampled air. They are thus specific sample results of gross beta terrestrial in origin.

analyses for air particulate filters.

The SSES Technical Requirements Air ParticulateGross Beta Manual requires radionuclide analysis if Weekly samples from all air particulate any weekly gross beta result was greater filter locations were analyzed for than ten times the most recent years concentrations of gross beta activity annual mean gross beta value for all air (Table 1-8). Gross beta activity was particulate sample control locations.

observed at the majority of locations This condition did not occur during above MDC for 2012. The 2012 2012.

indicator values ranged from 4.41E-3 to 26.6E-3 pCi/mn3, compared to 4.39E-3 Air ParticulateGamma to 29.3E-3 pCi/m 3 for 2011. The 2012 Spectroscopic mean ross beta activity of 14.5E-3 Quarterly gamma spectroscopic pCi/m for all indicator locations measurements of composited filters compared to the average of the annual often show the naturally occurring preoperational control mean of 62E-3 radionuclide beryllium-7. Occasionally, pCi/m 3 indicates activity detected below other naturally occurring radionuclides, the preoperational control. In addition, potassium-40, radium-226, actinium-a comparison of the 2012 indicator 228, and thorium-228 are also observed.

mean of 14.5E-3 pCi/m 3 with the 2012 Beryllium-7 is cosmogenic in origin, control locations mean of 13.6E-3 being produced by the interaction of pCi/m 3 indicates no appreciable effects cosmic radiation with the earth's from the operation of SSES. atmosphere. The other four gamma- 0 Environmental Monitoring Report 33 2012 Radiological 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

Atmospheric Pathway Monitoring emitting radionuclides originate from soil and rock.

Beryllium-7 was measured above analysis MDCs for all quarterly composite samples in 2012. The 2012 indicator and control means for beryllium-7 activity were 104E-3 and 103E-3 pCi/m 3, respectively.

Beryllium-7 activity levels for each 2012 calendar quarter at each monitoring location are presented in Table 1-9 of Appendix I. Comparisons of 2012 beryllium-7 analysis results with previous years may be found in Table H 14 of Appendix H.

No other gamma-emitting radionuclides were reported for air in 2012.

Beryllium-7 is not attributable to SSES operation.

Air Iodine Iodine- 131 has been detected infrequently from 1976, when it was first monitored, through 2012. Since operation of the SSES began in 1982, iodine- 131 has only been positively detected in air samples in 1986 due to the Chernobyl accident and the 2011 Fukushima Dai-ichi plant incident in Japan. No iodine-131 was measured above analysis MDC's in any REMP air samples for 2012.

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 34

S FIGURE 12 - GROSS BETA ACTIVITY (E-03 pCi/m 3) IN AIR PARTICULATES 500 450 PREOPERATIONAL CHINESE OPERATIONAL WEAPONS TEST 400 A- 06/17/74 B- 09/26/76 C- 11/17/76 350 D- 09/17/77 E- 03/14/78 300 F- 10/15/80 250 200 DE Unit 1 Criticality 150 09/10/1982 CHERNOBYL U 4/26/86 100 / Unit 2 I F Criticality 05/08/1984 50 I'

I I I ý I I I I I I I I I I I I I I i I I

-Indicator - Control

TerrestrialPathway Monitoring TERRESTRIAL PATHWAY MONITORING INTRODUCTION at different depths near the surface to Soil and milk were monitored in the help provide information on how Terrestrial Pathway in 2012. recently certain radioactive materials may have entered the soil. Sampling at Soil can be a great accumulator of man- more than one depth also may help made radionuclides that enter it. The ensure the detection of materials that extent of the accumulation in the soil move relatively quickly through the depends of course on the amount of the soil. Such quick-moving materials may radionuclides reaching it, but it also have already passed through the depends on the chemical nature of those topmost layer of soil at the time of radionuclides and the particular sampling.

characteristics of the soil. For example, the element cesium, and, therefore, Milk was sampled at four locations in cesium-137 can be bound very tightly to 2012. SSES Technical Requirements clay in soils. The amount of clay in soil require that the SSES REMP sample can vary greatly from one location to milk at the three most sensitive another. In clay soils, cesium-137 may monitoring locations near the SSES and move very slowly and also may be one control location distant from the taken up very slowly in plants as they SSES.

absorb soil moisture.

No requirement exists for the SSES Any medium, such as soil, that tends to REMP to monitor soil. All monitoring accumulate radioactive materials can of the terrestrial pathway that is also provide more sensitivity for conducted by the SSES REMP in radionuclide detection in the addition to milk (and broad leaf environment than those media that vegetation in certain cases when milk don't. Such a medium facilitates the sampling not performed) is voluntary early identification of radionuclides in and reflects PPL's willingness to exceed the environment, as well as awareness regulatory requirements to ensure that of changes that subsequently may occur the public and the environment are in the environmental levels of the protected.

identified radionuclides.

Scope The SSES REMP samples soil near two of the six REMP air-sampling stations.

The purpose for soil sampling near the Soil Soil was sampled in September 2012 in air sampling sites is to make it easier to accordance with its scheduled annual correlate air sampling results with soil sampling frequency, at the following sampling results if any SSES related two REMP air sampling locations: 12S 1 radioactive material were found in (indicator) and 8G1 (control).

either medium. Sampling is performed 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 36

TerrestrialPathwayMonitoring Several soil plugs were taken at selected Monitoring Results spots at each monitoring location. The plugs were separated into "top" Refer to the following for results of the (0-2 inches) and "bottom" (2-6 inches) terrestrial pathway analyses for 2012:

segments. Each set of top and bottom segments was composited to yield 2 soil

• Figure 13 trends iodine- 131 samples from each location for analysis. activities separately for milk Since there are two monitoring locations, a total of 4 soil samples were " Appendix G, Table G, shows a analyzed in 2012.

summary of the 2012 terrestrial monitoring results for milk and soil.

Milk " Appendix H, Tables H- 15 through Milk was sampled at least monthly at H-19, shows comparisons of the following locations in 2012: 5E2, terrestrial pathway monitoring 10D3, 13E3 and 1OG1. results against past years' data.

Milk was sampled bi-weekly from April

• Appendix I, Tables 1-10 and I-11, through October when cows were more shows results of specific sample likely to be on pasture and monthly at analyses for terrestrial pathway other times. Locations 5E2, 10D3, and media.

13E3 are believed to be the most sensitive indicator sites available for the The only man-made radionuclides detection of radionuclides released from normally expected at levels in excess of the SSES. Location 10G1 is the control analysis MDCs in the terrestrial location. pathway are strontium-90 and cesium-137. Both of these radionuclides are present in the environment as a residual Sample Preservation from previous atmospheric nuclear weapons testing. Strontium-90 analyses and Analysis are not routinely performed for any media samples in the terrestrial All media in the terrestrial pathway are pathway. Strontium-90 activity would analyzed for the activities of gamma- be expected to be found in milk. SSES emitting radionuclides using gamma Technical Requirements do not require spectroscopy. The other analysis that is that milk be analyzed for strontium-90.

routinely performed is the Strontium-90 analyses may be radiochemical analysis for iodine- 131 in performed at any time if the results of milk. other milk analyses would show detectable levels of fission product activity, such as 1-131, which might suggest the SSES as the source.

0 Environmental Monitoring Report 37 2012 Radiological 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

TerrestrialPathwav Mon itorine Certain naturally occurring were 916 pCi/kg and 877 pCi/kg, radionuclides are also routinely found respectively. Thorium-228 in soil is not above anaylsis MDCs. Potassium-40, a the result of SSES operation because it primordial and very long-lived is naturally occurring.

radionuclide, which is terrestrial in origin, is observed in all terrestrial The 2012 means for indicator and pathway media. Other naturally control location cesium- 137 activity occurring radionuclides often observed were 64.8 pCi/kg and 89 pCi/kg, in soil are thorium-228 and radium-226. respectively. The 2012 indicator values ranged from 56 to 73.6 pCi/kg, Soil compared to 92.3 to 124 pCi/kg for Annual samples from the 12S1 and 8G1 2011. Cesium-137 was observed in soil locations were analyzed for preoperational control samples at 200 to concentrations of gamma emitting 1200 pCi/kg as well as prior operational nuclides (Table I-11). The following years in the 70 to 1200 pCi/kg range.

gamma-emitting radionuclides are The measured activities of cesium- 137 routinely measured in soil at levels were also detected in previous years at exceeding analysis MDCs: naturally expected levels due to residual fall out occurring potassium-40, radium-226, from past atmospheric weapons testing actinium-228, thorium-228 and man- and the Chernobyl event. As a general made cesium- 137. The 2012 analysis rule, it takes approximately ten half results were similar to those for lives for a radionuclide to decay to non-previous years. No other gamma- detectable levels. Cesium-137 with its emitting radionuclides were reported at 30 year half life (300 years to decay to levels above analysis MDCs. non-detectable) would still be present in samples in 2012. Cesium-137 in soil, The 2012 means for indicator and although man-made, is not from control location potassium-40 activity Susquehanna station operations.

were 13,120 pCi/kg and 9,033 pCi/kg, respectively. This is not the result of Milk SSES operation because the potassium- Semi-monthly or monthly samples from 40 is naturally occurring. all milk locations were analyzed for concentrations of iodine- 131 and other The 2012 means for indicator and gamma-emitting nuclide activity (Table control location radium-226 activity I-10). No detectable iodine- 13 1 activity were 1,969 pCi/kg and 2,397 pCi/kg, above MDC was observed at any respectively. Radium-226 in soil is not location for 2012. The 2012 indicator the result of SSES operation because it values ranged from -.50 to .47 pCi/l, is naturally occurring. compared to -0.61 to 0.71 pCi/1 for 2011. Iodine- 131 has been chemically The 2012 means for indicator and separated in milk samples and counted control actinium-228 activity were 939 routinely since 1977. Refer to Figure 13 pCi/kg and 795 pCi/kg, respectively. which trends iodine- 131 activity in milk for indicator and control locations from The 2012 means for indicator and 1977 through 2012.

0 control location thorium-228 activity 38 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report Environmental Monitoring Radiological Environmental Report 38

TerrestrialPathway Mon itoring The preoperational years 1976, 1978, and 1980 were exceptional years in the sense that iodine- 131 activity was observed in excess of MDCs due to fallout from atmospheric nuclear weapons testing. Iodine- 131 activity was also measured at levels exceeding MDCs in milk samples in 1986 in the vicinity of the SSES as a result of the Chernobyl incident.

With the exception of the naturally occurring potassium-40, no gamma-emitting radionuclides were measured in excess of analysis MDCs in 2012.

The 2012 means for indicator and control location potassium-40 activity were 1,311 pCi/liter and 1,313 pCi/liter, respectively. The potassium-40 activity in milk is not attributable to SSES operation because it is naturally occurring.

Environmental Monitoring Report 39 2012 Radiological 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report

0 FIGURE 13 - IODINE-131 ACTIVITY IN MILK pCi/Liter 100 A OPERATIONAL 90 ýPRIq-OPERATION}L CHINESE 80 - WEAPONS TEST A - 09/12/77 B - 03/14/78 70 - C - 10/15/80 60 50 -

40 30 - CHERNOBYL 4/26/86 Unit 1 Criticality 20 - 009/110/1982 Unit 2 Criticality 10 -

05/08/1984 B C I

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• I I I I I . . . .

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Ground Water Monitoring GROUND WATER MONITORING Scope INTRODUCTION Ground water in the SSES vicinity was Normal operation of the SSES does not sampled quarterly at 14 indicator involve the release of radioactive locations (2S2, 4S4, 6S10, 11S2, 1S3, material to ground water directly, or 4S8, 4S9, 8S4, 7S10, 13S7, 2S8, indirectly through the ground. As a 6S 11 A/B, 6S 12, and 7S 11) and one result, there are no effluent monitoring control location (12F3) during 2012.

data to compare with REMP ground water monitoring results. Ground water With the exception of locations 4S4 and could conceivably become 12F3, untreated ground water was contaminated by leakage or spills from sampled. Untreated means that the the plant or by the washout or water has not undergone any processing deposition of radioactive material that such as filtration, chlorination, or might be airborne. If deposited on the softening. At location 4S4, the SSES ground, precipitation/soil moisture Learning Center, well water actually is could aid in the movement of obtained from on-site and piped to the radioactive materials through the Learning Center after treatment. This ground to water that could conceivably treatment would not affect tritium be pumped for drinking purposes. No analysis. This sampling is performed as use of ground water for irrigation near a check to ensure that water has not the SSES has been identified. been radioactively contaminated.

Sampling is performed at the Learning Primary release paths for recent Center to facilitate the sample collection groundwater contamination events at process.

other nuclear facilities have been: 1) spent fuel pool leakage; 2) leaks from Sample Preservation &

liquid radwaste discharge lines and; 3) leaks from cooling tower blowdown Analysis lines. The physical location of the spent fuel pools at Susquehanna and the fuel Ground water samples were analyzed pool leakage collection system make it for gamma-emitting radionuclide and highly unlikely that the fuel pools tritium activities. Gamma spectrometric would be a radiological contamination analyses of ground water began in 1979 source for groundwater. Leaks from the and tritium analyses in 1972, both prior liquid radwaste discharge line or the to SSES operation.

cooling tower blowdown line could impact ground water, but to date, there has been no indication of any radiological impacts on groundwater due to station operations.

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 41

Ground Water Monitoring routine airborne effluent from Susquehanna operations and subsequent Monitoring Results washout into precipitation and infiltration of tritium into groundwater.

Gamma-emitting radionuclides in excess of MDCs have been found in Monitoring Wells and Precipitation only a few samples in all the years that these analyses have been performed. An expanded groundwater-monitoring The naturally occurring radionuclides network was initiated in 2006 for the potassium-40, thorium-228 and Station as part of a site-wide actinium-228 have been measured hydrogeological investigation in above their MDCs occasionally in accordance with the Nuclear Energy ground water. Thorium-228 was found Institute (NEI) Groundwater Protection in 1985 and 1986. The man-made Initiative (GPI).

radionuclide cesium-137 has been detected only occasionally since 1979. The additional groundwater monitoring Its presence has always been attributed wells are sampled as part of the to residual fallout from previous Radiological Environmental Monitoring atmospheric nuclear weapons tests. Program to regularly assess groundwater quality and provides early Results for the 2012 specific ground detection of any inadvertent leaks or water sample analyses may be found in spills of radioactive materials that could Table 1-7 of Appendix I. A summary of reach groundwater. Groundwater is the 2012 ground water monitoring data sampled quarterly and analyzed for is in Appendix G. tritium and gamma activity.

Comparisons of 2012 monitoring results Additionally, precipitation sampling for tritium with those of past years may was initiated in 2007 and analyzed for be found in Table H 20 of Appendix H. tritium activity to assess the influence of station airborne tritium emissions on In 2012 tritium was measured above groundwater tritium activities.

MDC, in seven samples at indicator locations 1S3, 4S8, 8S4, 4S9, 7S10, Precipitation washout monitoring data 6S11A, and 13S7. The activities were is not used in dose calculations; slightly above the detection limit. The however, the data does give a gross 2012 indicator values ranged from -93 indication of tritium concentrations to 259 pCi/l, compared to -117 to 246 which makes its way into surface water pCi/l for 2011. The 2012 mean tritium and soil where it eventually seeps into activity levels for indicator and control shallow groundwater. The average monitoring locations were 58.4 and annual tritium concentrations in

-5.87 pCi/l, respectively. precipitation, perimeter drain manholes, groundwater monitoring wells, and The source of the low level tritium surface water results are summarized in monitored in groundwater is associated Table GW 1 and graphically depicted in with the permitted discharge of tritiated Figure 14.

water vapor or gases released from 2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 42

Ground Water Monitoring Table GW 1 - 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012 Annual Average Tritium Concentration (pCi/1) in Precipitation, Perimeter Drain, Monitoring Wells and LTAW Surface Water Data Site 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 Precip Sites 3S2,12S1,8G1 (off- 62* 49 40 38 82 site, controls)

Precip Sites 1 and 2 (on-site, 370 230* 193 216 242 East of Station Reactor Buildings)

Precip Sites 3 and 4 (on-site, 414 404* 350 233 169 West of Station Reactor Buildings)

Perimeter Drain manholes 344 304 325 236 185 (below grade, 28')

1S3 - MW- 1 (43') 248 150 252 131 164 4S8 - MW-2 (45') 292 154 190 173 137 4S9 - MW-3 (94') 127 54 150 64 80 8S4 - MW-4 (111') 172 66 105 68 81 7S10 - MW-5 (36') 171 69 96 -6 74 13S7 - MW-6 (16') 142 134 143 34 80 w 2S8 - MW-7 (not installed) N/A (not N/A (not N/A (not 22 54 installed) installed) installed) 6S11A - MW-8A (14') 177 82 165 58 15 MW-8B (19') N/A (well N/A (well N/A (well N/A (well N/A (well dry) dry) dry) dry) dry) 6S12 - MW-9 (28') 30 -44 45 18 6 7S11 - MW-10 (132') 3 -27 -9 1 -1 12F3 - Groundwater Control 26 -53 -2 5 -6 (5.2 miles from Site)

LTAW: Surface Water 179 104 110 132 132

• Revised values to reflect full scope of precipitation data.

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 43

Ground Water Monitoring Precipitation will invariably become groundwater via infiltration through soil and into groundwater. The highest average tritium concentration in precipitation on-site in 2012 was 242 pCi/i from Sites 1 and 2 located on the west side of the station reactor buildings. In 2012, the tritium concentration in rainwater samples ranged from 32 to 511 pCi/l compared to -11 to 1100 pCi/l in 2011. Liquid is not always present in the precipitation collection devices during dry months, thus quarterly and annual tritium averages are generally only representative of wetter months. The decreasing trend in tritium in the perimeter drain system parallels the decrease in tritium in precipitation seen in Figure 14.

The perimeter foundation drain system is below grade (approximately 28 feet) and serves to reduce hydrostatic pressure from groundwater on the building structures.

Precipitation and storm water runoff may also enter these drains via infiltration.

Groundwater results from the perimeter drains have tritium concentrations that are slightly above MDC. The source of the tritium at these locations can be attributed to precipitation washout of tritium from routine airborne effluent releases. It is evident that elevated tritium levels found within sub-surface groundwater in close proximity to the station is influenced by station airborne emissions and tritiated precipitation washout. The impact of the station tritium emissions on groundwater activities is dependent on the distance from the station, groundwater depth and general dispersion conditions around the station. The pre-operational groundwater background (12F3 control) from 1980-81 was approximately 120 pCi/l and is located 5.2 miles WSW of the Susquehanna site.

0 44 2012 Radiological Environmental 2012 Radiological Monitoring Report Environmental Monitoring Report 44

S FIGURE 14 - ANNUAL AVERAGE TRITIUM ACTIVITY (pCi/i) IN PRECIPITATION, PERIMETER DRAIN, SURFACE WATER VERSUS GROUND WATER 1200 1100 1000 900 800 700 600 500 400 300 m a 100 0

-100

-"nof

• IMVV V

S 2007 12008 ý2009 -2010 2011 2012 -investigation Level -MDC

References REFERENCES

1. Pennsylvania Power and Light Company, "Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Environmental Report, Operating License Stage," May 1978.

2. Pennsylvania Power and Light Company, "Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Final Safety Analysis Report".

3. United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation, "Final Environmental Statement Related to the Operation of Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Units 1 and 2," Docket Nos. 50-387 and 50-388, June 1981.

4. United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission, "An Acceptable Radiological Environmental Monitoring Program," Radiological Assessment Branch Technical Position, November 1979, Revision 1.

5. National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements, "Environmental Radiation Measurement," NCRP Report No. 50, Washington, D.C.,

December 27, 1976.

6. Oakley, D.C., "Natural Radiation Exposure in the United States," ORP/SID 72-1 Office of Radiation Programs, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., June 1972.

7. Denham, D.H., Roberts, M.C., Novitsky, W.M., Testa, E.D., "Investigation of Elevated Cesium-137 Concentrations in Small Game in Luzerne County, Pennsylvania." Proceedings of Papers presented at Health Physics Society Tenth Midyear Topical Symposium, October 11-13, 1976, pgs. 271-279.

8. Currie L.A., "Lower Limit of Detection: Definition and Elaboration of a Proposed Position for Radiological Effluent and Environmental Measurements,"

NUREG/CR-4007, September 1984.

9. PPL, "Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, 2011 Annual Radiological Environmental Operating Report," April 2012.

10. PPL, "Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, Radioactive Effluent Release Report,"

Data Period: January - December 2012, April 2013.

11. Ecology III, "Susquehanna Steam Electric Station, 2012 Land Use Census,"

(November 2012).

12. PPL, "Engineering Study, EC-ENVR-1012 (Revision 2, February 2013),"

Interpretation of Environmental Direct Radiation Results.

13. PPL, Tritium Release REMP Calculation (RETDAS V.3.6.6) - December 2012.

14. NCRP Report No. 160, "Ionizing Radiation Exposure of the Population of the United States" (2009).

2012 Radiological Environmental Monitoring Report 46