Air samples monitoring This area. processing filter and swipe program samples were taken throughout continued around the entire our processing phase. Each soil profile produced six soil samples except in cases where it was impossible to get to the deeper depths because of coral bed rock. There were approximately 516 profiles collected and some 3093 soil samples were processed in the soil preparation laboratory between January and September of 1979. The soil samples were received in large plastic bags wrapped tightly with plastic tape with a field log number and location written on the bag and tape. The pertinent information collection date, and the from the field log appearance of each books on sample was the recorded location, in the laboratory log books. The samples were unwrapped and put in l-gal cans. The description and field log number on the bag was recorded on the can and the wet weight of the soil was determined. Sample weights varied from 0.5 to 1 kg. were dried in large commercial ovens at 75°C for 48 h. removed and the dry weight was measured. The samples were then They were placed back in the ovens for an additional 24 h after which they were again weighed. resulted, the sample was considered dry. ovens for an additional 24 h. The soil samples If not, Eight l-in. If a constant weight it was placed back in the steel grinding balls were placed in the l-gal can of dry soil and the cover was securely taped to prevent it from coming off during mixing. The entire assembly was then covered with a galvanized steel jacket held in place by two large rubber O-rings to prevent the can from being damaged. The samples were ball milled continuously for 48 h to produce a homogenous sample. After ball milling, fractions of the soil samples were canned for gamma spectrometry. All soil canning was performed in fume hoods. Before canned the fume hood was vacuumed and clean paper inserted. each sample was After canning all the soils from an atoll, the hood was washed completely with soap and water and rinsed with Radiacwash. The soil lab area was then steam cleaned and canning of soils from another atoll would begin. The thick). 4-cm finely ground soil was packed Two sizes of cans were used. high and 8.3 cm in diameter tightly in an aluminum can (0.25-mm The first (referred to as a tuna can) was with a volume of 219 cm The second (referred to as a bean can) was 4.6-cm high and 8 cm in diameter with a volume of 231 em. 10 re wet anes Soa contamination.