Plutonium in Chernobyl fallout at Belgrade location

Plutonium is one of the most toxic radioactive elements. Since Pu-isotopes 236, 238, 239 and 240 are α-emitters the greatest hazard comes from ingestion of Pu. Since 1960. β- and γ- aerosol activity is continually measured in Belgrade–Vinca Laboratory. The concentrations of plutonium radionuclides in air are especially measured at the time of nuclear weapons tests and nuclear accidental situations. The concentrations of 238Pu and 239,240Pu were determined in surface air at the Vinca site (12 km from Belgrade, Long. 20o 30', Lat. 44o 50') measuring α-activity of Pu-isotopes in air in the period from May 1986. until the end of 1987.