Study of Radium 226 & 228 in Pennsylvania Landfill Leachate Project

Radium is a naturally occurring element that is present in low levels in the environment. Higher levels of radium can be found alongside other radioactive materials as a result of certain industrial processes such as oil and gas extraction processes; these concentrated waste materials are called Technological Enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (TENORM). As of July 2021, the state of Pennsylvania requires all Pennsylvania landfills to measure radium-226 and radium-228 in landfill leachate due to rising concerns for potential radiological contamination associated with the fracking industry in Pennsylvania and the production of unconventional oil and gas waste. The purpose of this project is to monitor Pennsylvania landfills for changes in radium-226 and radium-228 and evaluate whether concentrations in landfill leachate exceed federal action levels and to further understanding of impacts of radiological waste on Pennsylvania landfills and human health. These findings will help inform the state of emerging contaminants and if further action is needed to lower or maintain concentration to avoid environmental and health impacts.

Research Partner: Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

Funding: $113,555