GAMMA DOSE RATES AT RONGELAP ATOLL,
1954-1963
ABSTRACT
Rongelap Atoll was contaminated with fallout from a thermonuclear
device on March 1,
1954.
3.5 rfhr to 35 rfhr.
Gamma-dose rates on D + 1 ranged from
Until 1959 the decline of gamma-dose rates
measured in the field followed the theoretical decay of mixed
fission products from u*>° calculated by Miller and Loeb.
The
reduction of gamma dose rates to approximately half the predicted
levels in 1959-63 probably reflects the downward movement of the
long-lived gamma-emitter est?” in the soil.
Redistribution of
TT ae
meet ae —
fallout had little effect on gamma dose rates except in the
intertidal zone.
It is concluded that predicted gamma dose
rates from fallout based on the theoretical decay curve of radionuclides from fission of y*3? would tend to be equal to or greater
than actual levels.
Department of Energy
Historian’s Office
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