Transport of NORM in the port of Antwerp: from megaports to a special purpose measurement methodology

Abstract

When nuclear inspections are conducted in the port of Antwerp, many alarms are triggered by NORM. This paper presents an overview and preliminary results of a study taking place in the port of Antwerp and at NORM handling companies. The study aims to get an overview of NORM transport in the port of Antwerp, including quantity, destination, dose rates and activity concentrations. Furthermore, a methodology is being developed to obtain an in situ estimation of the activity concentration of material in containment systems typically used in industry (shipping containers and bulk bags). The preliminary results of the assessment of this methodology are discussed.