Annual Site Environmental Report for Calendar Year 2004
Authors: V. Finley
Abstract:
This report provides the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the public with information on the level of radioactive and non-radioactive pollutants (if any) that are added to the environment as a result of Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory's (PPPL) operations. The results of the 2004 environmental surveillance and monitoring program for PPPL's are presented and discussed. The report also summarizes environmental initiatives, assessments, and programs that were undertaken in 2004.
PPPL has engaged in fusion energy research since 1951. The vision of the Laboratory is to create innovations to make fusion power a practical reality - a clean, alternative energy source. 2004 marked the sixth year of National Spherical Torus Experiment (NSTX) operations and start of fabrication for the National Compact Stellarator Experiment (NCSX) project. The NSTX Project a collaboration among fourteen national laboratories, universities, and research institutions is a major element in the US Fusion Energy Sciences Program. It was designed to test the physics principles of spherical torus (ST) plasmas. The ST concept could play an important role in the development of smaller, more economical fusion reactors. In mid-2004, the Secretary of Energy, Spencer Abraham, announced that PPPL, partnered with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will host the United States Team for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) project.
In 2004, PPPL's radiological environmental monitoring program measured tritium in the air at on- and off-site sampling stations. PPPL is capable of detecting small changes in the ambient levels of tritium by using highly sensitive monitors. The operation of an in-stack monitor located on D-site is a requirement of the National Emission Standard for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAPs) regulations. Also included in PPPL's radiological environmental monitoring program, are water monitoring - precipitation, ground-, surface-, and waste-waters. PPPL's radiological monitoring program characterized the background levels of tritium in the environment; the data are presented in this report. Ground-water monitoring continued under New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection guidance. PPPL monitored for the presence of non-radiological contaminants, mainly volatile organic compounds (components of degreasing solvents). Monitoring revealed the low levels of volatile organic compounds in an area adjacent to PPPL. In 2004, PPPL was in compliance with its permit limits for surface and sanitary discharges and reported three small quantity reportable releases. Additionally, as part of DOE's program for the purchase of recycled content and other environmentally preferred products, PPPL has ranked in the excellent category of greater than 88% of national goals.