Research progress on the distribution of anthropogenic radionuclides in Northwest China

Abstract

Recent global radiological incidents have heightened attention to environmental radioactivity. Although analytical methods for anthropogenic radionuclides in environmental samples and background research are relatively well-established on a global scale, systematic research data are still lacking in the Northwest China region. This region is not only affected by global fallout caused by nuclear weapons tests in the last century, but also the regional fallout —the Lop Nor nuclear test site, China's only nuclear testing base. The various sources, complicated climate and terrain results in the unique distribution of radionuclides. Therefore, systematically summarizing the spatial distribution characteristics of artificial radionuclides in the northwest region serves as a scientific foundation for assessing the environmental risks associated with historical nuclear test legacies. It also represents a critical component in building a global nuclear safety monitoring network. Simultaneously, it provides essential data support for regional ecological environmental protection and the development of green industries. This study reviews anthropogenic radionuclide distribution in Northwest China's environment, highlighting uneven spatial coverage, incomplete nuclide inclusion, and insufficient databases. The paper proposes future directions for systematic and long-term comprehensive research, emphasizing the need to strengthen the investigation of the links between artificial radionuclides and ecological effects as well as health risks. This paper summarizes research to enhance monitoring and improve anthropogenic radionuclide background data, offering a scientific basis for policy-making and environmental protection. The review presented in this paper offers an important reference for further exploring solutions to environmental radioactivity issues in Northwest China.