Transfer parameters for ICRP reference animals and plants collected from a forest ecosystem

The International Commission on Radiological
Protection (ICRP) have suggested the identification of a
series of terrestrial, marine and freshwater sites from which
samples of each Reference animal and plant (RAP) could
be systematically collected and analysed. We describe the
first such study in which six of the eight terrestrial RAPs,
and associated soil samples, were collected from a site
located in a managed coniferous forestry plantation in
north-west England. Adult life stages of species representing
six of the terrestrial RAPs (Wild grass, Pine tree,
Deer, Rat, Earthworm and Bee) were sampled and analysed
to determine concentrations of 60 elements and gammaemitting
radionuclides. The resultant data have been used
to derive concentration ratios (CRwo-soil) relating element/
radionuclide concentrations in the RAPs to those in soil.
This paper presents the first-reported transfer parameters
for a number of the RAP–element combinations. Where
possible, the derived CRwo-soil values are compared with
the ICRPs-recommended values and any appreciable differences
discussed.