Resuspension and deposition of PM2.5 and PM10 containing radiocesium during and after indoor cleaning of uninhabited houses in Fukushima, Japan

• Published in: Chemosphere (Oxford) Vol. 272; p. 129934
• Main Authors: Shinohara, Naohide, Yoshida-Ohuchi, Hiroko
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.06.2021
• Subjects: Aerosols; Air exchange rate; Dry deposition; Fukushima; Radiocesium; Resuspension; Aerosols; Fukushima; Air exchange rate; Resuspension; Dry deposition; Radiocesium
• ISSN: 0045-6535; 1879-1298
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.129934

Radiocesium contamination in homes could be a serious concern following Japan’s 2011 Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant accident, including exposure to radiocesium during cleaning when residents return home after the lifting of evacuation orders. This study measured PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations containing radiocesium during cleaning (dusting, vacuuming with a cordless cyclone unit, and vacuuming with a corded paper-pack unit), as well as air exchange rates, in 12 residential houses in Fukushima. Surface dusting of walls, shelves, and furniture significantly increased concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 by up to 6.3 and 16 times the background (outdoor) level, respectively. Vacuuming with a paper-pack unit increased levels by 2.2 and 3.3 times, while vacuuming with a cordless cyclone unit increased these by 1.3 and 1.5 times, respectively. Measurements in 11 houses revealed an average air exchange rate of 0.22/h and dry deposition rates for PM2.5 and PM10 of 0.13/h and 0.32/h, respectively. Dry deposition rates were not correlated with building age, although the air exchange rates showed statistically significant increases with increasing building age. Dry deposition rates of PM2.5 significantly decreased with increasing air exchange rates. [Display omitted] •Radiocesium in houses affected by the FDNPP accident may present a cleaning hazard.•PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were measured during dusting and vacuuming.•Air exchange rates correlated with building age, though dry deposition did not.•Dry deposition of PM2.5 decreased with increasing air exchange.•Cleaning should be conducted with windows and doors open for greater air exchange.