These radioactive materials settle out of water and bind to sediment. Hence, levels of cesium and other radionuclides have been consistently higher closest to the sewage plant's discharge point in the eastern-central portion of the Lab property. Following expected patterns of deposition, the plutonium levels are likely to be highest in sediment closest to the point of discharge from the plant. BNL's sewage treatment plant and surrounding area, including a section of the Peconic River, will be remediated under requirements of the federal Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, commonly known as the Superfund law. The recent plutonium tests are part of BNL's ongoing Superfund activities.
Plutonium is a radioactive metal that is a byproduct of nuclear reactor operation.
Plutonium is also used for nuclear weapons and satellite power systems. It is present in the environment from past aboveground nuclear weapons testing. There are several different forms of plutonium, called isotopes. Health authorities state that it is hazardous only if inhaled or ingested. The plutonium found at BNL is in sediment and soil only, and there is no direct pathway for a person to inhale or ingest it.