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Research and analysis

Behaviour of radionuclides in wastewater systems: a laboratory study

Examines how medical radionuclides separate themselves between different parts of the wastewater environment through laboratory experiments.

Applies to England

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This project examined how medical radionuclides separate themselves (partition) between different parts of the wastewater environment through laboratory experiments. It assessed the behaviour of lutetium-177 (177Lu) and iodine-131 (131I) during transfer to sewer pipes, concrete tanks, and river sediment from wastewater after a hospital discharge of radioactive waste to sewers.

The findings will help the Environment Agency to better understand the radiological impacts of medical waste discharges on people and the environment and to aid the regulation of the sectors that use medical radionuclides. This includes hospitals, universities, and other research institutions.

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Published 31 July 2026

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