vvEPA
United States Office of Research and EPA/600/C-21/103
Environmental Protection Development September 2021
Agency Washington, D.C. 20460
www.epa.gov/emergency-response-research
Integrated Radiological
Remediation Decision Support Tool
to Optimize Radiological Cleanup
Decisions
by
Timothy Boe*, Dr. Sang Don Lee*, Dr. Paul Lemieux*, Kathy Hall*, Jim Mitchell**, Eugene Jablonowski**, Colin Hayes***,
Cody Fiola***, Molly Rodgers***
*US EPA Office of Research and Development (ORD)
Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response (CESER)
Homeland Security and Materials Management Division (HSMMD)
**US EPA Region 5
***Eastern Research Group
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DISCLAIMER
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, through its Office of Research and Development, funded and
managed the research described here under Contract EP-C-16-015 to Eastern Research Group, Inc. This
document has been reviewed in accordance with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency policy and
approved for publication. Any mention of trade names, manufacturers or products does not imply an
endorsement by the United States Government or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA and
its employees do not endorse any commercial products, services, or enterprises. The contractor role did
not include establishing Agency policy.
Questions concerning this document, or its application, should be addressed to:
Timothy Boe
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Research and Development
Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response
109 T.W. Alexander Dr. (MD-E-343-06)
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Phone 919.541.2617
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FOREWORD
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is charged by Congress with protecting the Nation's
land, air, and water resources. Under a mandate of national environmental laws, the Agency strives to
formulate and implement actions leading to a compatible balance between human activities and the
ability of natural systems to support and nurture life. To meet this mandate, EPA's research program is
providing data and technical support for solving environmental problems today and building a science
knowledge base necessary to manage our ecological resources wisely, understand how pollutants affect
our health, and prevent or reduce environmental risks in the future.
The Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response (CESER) within the Office of Research
and Development (ORD) conducts applied stakeholder-driven research and provides responsive
technical support to help solve the Nation's environmental challenges. The Center's research focuses on
innovative approaches to address environmental challenges associated with the built environment. We
develop technologies and decision-support tools to help safeguard public water systems and
groundwater, guide sustainable materials management, remediate sites from traditional contamination
sources and emerging environmental stressors, and address potential threats from terrorism and
natural disasters. CESER collaborates with both public and private sector partners to foster technologies
that improve the effectiveness and reduce the cost of compliance, while anticipating emerging
problems. We provide technical support to EPA regions and programs, states, tribal nations, and federal
partners, and serve as the interagency liaison for EPA in homeland security research and technology.
The Center is a leader in providing scientific solutions to protect human health and the environment.
This report describes the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Integrated Radiological
Remediation Decision Support Tool (IRR-DST). IRR-DST is a novel tool for evaluating decontamination
technologies and the associated resource demand required to remediate areas of elevated radioactive
contamination identified by gamma-ray imaging technology. The IRR-DST was developed to help
decision makers better understand potential options for decontamination and the consequences those
options might have on remediation efforts (i.e., systems approach). The IRR-DST is an easily deployable
spreadsheet for rapidly evaluating decontamination options using the magnitude and extent of
contamination derived from gamma-ray imaging.
Gregory Sayles, Director
Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response
ii
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Contributions of the following individuals and organizations to this report are acknowledged:
U.S. EPA Technical Reviewers of Report
Worth Calfee (EPA/ORD/CESER)
Terry Stilman (EPA/Region 4)
U.S. EPA Quality Assurances
Ramona Sherman (EPA/ORD/CESER)
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Disclaimer i
Foreword ii
Acknowledgments iii
List of Tables v
List of Figures v
Acronyms and Abbreviations vi
1 Introduction 1
2 How to Use This Manual 1
3 Description 1
3.1 3D Model 1
3.2 Systems Approach 2
3.3 Design 3
3.4 Expansion 4
3.5 Assumptions 4
4 Installation and Setup 5
4.1 Minimum System and Software Requirements 5
5 Quick Start User Guide 5
5.1 Combining Gamma-Ray and 3D Blueprint Imagery 5
5.2 Home 6
5.3 Global Inputs 7
5.4 Rad Decay 8
5.5 Rad Distribution 9
5.6 Site Inputs 9
5.7 Results Summary 13
6 Troubleshooting 14
7 References 14
iv
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. Minimum System and Software Requirements 5
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. GeGI image 2
Figure 2. Systems thinking approach for CBRN incidents 3
Figure 3. Comparison of GeGI image converted to a 3D image 6
Figure 4. Home worksheet 7
Figure 5. Global inputs worksheet 8
Figure 6. Rad decay worksheet 8
Figure 7. Rad distribution worksheet 9
Figure 8. Copying rows in the site inputs worksheet 10
Figure 9. Pasting rows into the site inputs worksheet 10
Figure 10. entering new information for the new rows in the site inputs worksheet 11
Figure 11. Selecting the "calc" worksheet to copy 11
Figure 12. Copying the "calc" worksheet 12
Figure 13. Renaming the copied "calc" worksheet 12
Figure 14. Naming the new worksheet 12
Figure 15. Results summary worksheet 13
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ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS
Acronym
Definition
AMS
Advanced Medical Systems
CBRN
chemical, biological, radiological, or nuclear
CESER
Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response (EPA)
EPA
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
GB
gigabyte
GeGI
Germanium Gamma-Ray Imager
GHz
gigahertz
HSMMD
Homeland Security and Materials Management Division (EPA)
HSRP
Homeland Security Research Program (EPA)
IRR-DST
Integrated Radiological Remediation Decision Support Tool
ORD
Office of Research and Development (ORD)
PPE
personnel protective equipment
RAM
random access memory
vi
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1 INTRODUCTION
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA's) Integrated Radiological Remediation Decision
Support Tool (IRR-DST) is a novel tool for evaluating decontamination technologies and the associated
resource demand required to remediate areas of elevated radioactive contamination identified by
gamma-ray imaging technology. The IRR-DST was developed to help decision makers better understand
potential options for decontamination and the consequences those options might have on remediation
efforts (i.e., systems approach). The IRR-DST is an easily deployable spreadsheet for rapidly evaluating
decontamination options using the magnitude and extent of contamination derived from gamma-ray
imaging.
2 HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
The purpose of this manual is to provide the necessary information to operate the IRR-DST. Described in
this manual are the methods for installing, configuring, and operating the IRR-DST. Before operating the
IRR-DST, it is highly recommended that users have previous experience using Microsoft Excel
3 DESCRIPTION
In July of 2015, EPA Region 5 requested EPA's Homeland Security Research Program's (HSRP) support in
determining cost effective decontamination options for remediating a radiologically contaminated
facility in Cleveland, Ohio. The facility, the Advanced Medical Systems (AMS) site, manufactured Cobalt-
60 (Co-60) sealed sources until production ceased in 1991. The manufacturing facility, which is located
adjacent to a densely populated residential neighborhood, remains radioactive. Using a gamma-ray
imaging device, numerous areas of elevated activity were identified at the facility by Region 5. Due to
the potential cost of remediating the site in its entirety, HSRP scientists were tasked with identifying
cost-effective decontamination options, and to evaluate the impact of decontamination decisions on
remediation efforts. From this need, the IRR-DST was developed. The tool uses contamination level (piCi)
and surface area information (m2), derived from gamma-ray imaging technology, to help guide decision
makers in determining the most cost- and time-effective decontamination approach with respect to
overall outcome of the remediation effort. Results are calculated based on three primary inputs: 1)
surface area; 2) targeted radioactivity; and 3) minimization of either cost, time, or waste generated.
Using these three inputs, the tool recommends a particular mechanical or chemical decontamination
technology that could achieve a specified activity. Decontamination cost, time, activity, and waste
estimates are calculated as a function of decontamination technology and number of applications. The
results are summarized in an easy-to-read format.
The tool was built on two different yet complementary approaches: 1) transformation of 2-dimensional
(2D) gamma-ray radiation field information onto a 3-dimensional (3D) model for estimating surface area
and surface contamination; and 2) an approach for estimating the impacts of decisions on remediation
efforts (i.e., systems approach). These two approaches are discussed in further detail below.
3.1 3D Model
EPA Region 5 officials used a gamma-ray imager (GeGI®) to characterize the AMS facility [1], This device
can identify, localize, and quantify the distribution of gamma-ray-emitting materials by projecting a
quantifiable gamma-ray radiation field onto an optical image [1], This technology offers a quick and easy
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method for quickly characterizing contaminated sites while simultaneously collecting spectral and
spatial information. Figure 1 shows an example image captured by the GeGI unit.
Figure 1. GeGI image.
One deficiency of the GeGI results was the projection of its radiation field onto a 2D image as shown in
Figure 1. Because the images lacked depth, the area and orientation of the hot spot could not be fully
determined This problem was partially remediated by superimposing the gamma-ray image onto a 3D
surface, allowing the 3D model to reconstruct the orientation of the surfaces. By using this approach,
the area and extent of contamination can be extrapolated and imported into the IRR-DST.
3.2 Systems Approach
Historically, chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) incident response decision support
tools have focused solely on one problem or outcome, whether it is the identification of sampling
locations for characterization purposes, cost of decontamination, or the management of waste. Most of
these tools ignore the impact a given decision (e.g., decontamination technology selection) might have
on remediation efforts. The ability to measure or predict the impact of the decisions or operations couid
have en masse would greatly enhance both decision making and remediation efforts. This concept of
intricately tying together the various processes and stages of remediation to create a more
encompassing system is known as the systems approach. As shown in Figure 2, as decisions are made,
the resource demand might increase or decrease (typically the latter) in scale. With time, operationally
driven decisions drive or tip the balance in favor of more resources. This increased requirement for
resources typically causes remediation to become resource-intensive in terms of cost and time (e.g., a
particular decontamination method is costly, but is quicker). The systems approach seeks to balance the
overall resource demand by leveraging the system as a whole and predicting the optimal outcome,
which in return provides greater insight and improves decision making. The IRR-DST embodies this
method by allowing the user to see how their decisions impact other operations (e.g., decontamination
versus waste management) with regards to resource demand (e.g., cost and time).
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Figure 2. Systems thinking approach for CBRN incidents.
3.3 Design
The IRR-DST is composed entirely of a Microsoft Excel workbook. The workbook is dynamic, in that it
adjusts its calculations to accommodate user-defined variables, and it is adaptable and scalable to
accommodate smaller or larger scenarios. The workbook consists of fourteen (14) worksheets. These
worksheets are arranged in a manner that logically steps the user through the processes necessary to
calculate the resource demands associated with a selected decontamination technology. These steps are
further described below.
Home: The "Home" worksheet, the first screen the user sees once the workbook is launched, contains
information about the tool, instructions for use, a disclaimer, and assumptions.
Global Inputs: The "Global Inputs" worksheet captures user inputs that are used throughout the
workbook. The global inputs account for costs associated with pre- and post-decontamination (e.g., site
preparation, personal protective equipment (PRE), and waste handling). These inputs are not directly
associated with the decontamination technologies; however, these inputs are included to support
independent government cost estimates.
Rad Decay: The "Rad Decay" worksheet can be used to estimate the activity level of the radioactive
contaminant after a given period of time or the length of time that it will take for a given initial activity
of radioactive material to decay to a specified activity levei. This worksheet can be updated based on a
given isotope and half-life.
Rad Distribution: The "Rad Distribution" worksheet uses an equation to describe the relative
distribution of a given radionuclide in concrete. Co-60 is included by default. Based on the distribution of
the depth of the radionuclide, a removal efficacy/depth is estimated [2], This sheet should not be
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modified. However, the distribution values can be adjusted using the exploratory results from the initial
decontamination work. For additional information, please contact the project's principal investigator.
Site Inputs: The "Site Inputs" worksheet is used to obtain a recommended decontamination technology
based on a targeted activity per location and zone and the inputs from the transformation of 2D gamma-
ray radiation field information onto a 3D model for estimating surface area and surface contamination.
The IRR-DST will calculate the number of applications/passes needed and other various resource
demands and recommend either a mechanical or chemical decontamination technology based on the
user inputs. This worksheet can be expanded to accommodate additional locations and zones.
Results Summary: The "Results Summary" worksheet contains a text field to describe the scenario, an
aggregated summary of the results, the disclaimer, and assumptions. This worksheet was designed to be
printable for use in other documentation.
Calc: The "Calc" worksheet (and subsequent copies made by the user) contains the calculations
necessary to recommend a particular decontamination technology based on user inputs on the "Site
Inputs" worksheet for each hot spot (combination of Location ID and Zone ID). The "Site Inputs"
represent a location of interest (e.g., room or hot spot) that will undergo decontamination. The
estimates associated with each "Calc" worksheet are specific to that location. The "Results Summary"
spreadsheet aggregates the results of each "Calc" worksheet into an easy-to-read summary of resource
estimates and applied decontamination technologies. These worksheets are not to be modified by the
user. By default, the tool includes four copies of the "Calc" worksheet ("Bl," "B2," "B3," and "B4").
Section 5.6 has additional information on those worksheets.
Tech Data: The "Tech Data" worksheet aggregates the technical and performance data for mechanical
and chemical decontamination technologies used in the tool (from the two worksheets described
below). This worksheet is not to be modified by the user.
Mech Tech Details: The "Mech Tech Details" worksheet aggregates the technical and performance data
for mechanical decontamination technologies used in the tool and includes additional useful
information regarding performance and application [3], This worksheet is not to be modified by the
user.
Chem Tech Details: The "Chem Tech Details" worksheet aggregates the technical and performance data
for chemical decontamination technologies used in the tool and includes additional useful information
regarding performance and application [4-10], This worksheet is not to be modified by the user. Note
that the calculations use only one application of all chemical decontamination technologies.
3.4 Expansion
Since the IRR-DST was built using Excel, the workbook can be modified to account for larger or smaller
scenarios by simply dragging and expanding fields of interest. Section 5 (Quick Start User Guide) states
whether a specified worksheet can be expanded and how it can be expanded.
3.5 Assumptions
The IRR-DST is based on several assumptions derived through research results or professional judgment.
The estimates do not include time and cost demands associated with personnel training, travel, location
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transition, PPE, or transportation. The penetration of radionuclides into the surfaces is based on
estimates from Co-60 penetration into unsealed concrete, which might not precisely reflect the
radionuclide contamination for the surfaces being modeled. Furthermore, the prescribed
decontamination approach does not account for crevices, holes, or any other disturbance of the surface
as these disturbances could have enhanced the penetration of the contaminant into the concrete.
4 INSTALLATION AND SETUP
This chapter explains how to install and set up the IRR-DST. Before installation, users need to confirm
that their system meets or exceeds the recommended hardware and software requirements.
Note: Upon launching the workbook, Excel might ask users to update links. It is recommended that users
approve this request by pressing the "Update" button; otherwise, some of the formulae might fail.
4.1 Minimum System and Software Requirements
This section provides the minimum system requirements and required software for the IRR-DST.
Meeting the minimum system requirements does not guarantee that the IRR-DST will operate as
intended. Memory requirements are often dependent on the number of rows being used in the
workbook.
Table 1. Minimum System and Software Requirements
Required Software
Microsoft Excel
Processor
1 gigahertz (GHz) or faster x86- or x64-bit processor with SSE2 instruction set
RAM
1 gigabyte (GB) Random Access Memory (RAM) (32-bit); 2 GB RAM (64-bit)
Screen Resolution
1024 x 768 pixels
Operating System
Windows 10 or macOS Mojave
Disk Space
3.0 GB available (Microsoft Excel)
5 QUICK START USER GUIDE
This chapter provides the necessary steps to create an IRR-DST scenario from beginning to end.
Note: The process of modeling gamma-ray and 3D imagery will require the use of 3D modeling such as
SketchUp or Blender.
5.1 Combining Gamma-Ray and 3D Blueprint Imagery
The IRR-DST uses a novel method of projecting contamination information onto a 3D surface. This
section will step the user through the process required for superimposing contamination information
onto a 3D surface.
1. Information regarding the type, level, and extent of contamination can be derived using a gamma-
ray imaging device. The PHDS Co. Germanium Gamma-Ray Imager (GeGI) was referenced in the
development of the IRR-DST. A complete and thorough characterization of the site should be
conducted before using the IRR-DST.
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2. Once the site has been characterized, the images taken by the imaging device can then be manually
imported into a 3D modeling program (e.g., SketchUp). The building footprint information needs to
be imported into the 3D modeling software and the walls/floors extruded to the appropriate height.
Using the images as a reference, users should draw the contaminated area divided into four
separate zones, onto the impacted surfaces. Figure 3 shows a gamma-ray image derived from GeGI
(left) that was converted to a 3D image (right). Users should use their own judgment to determine
the orientation, size, and dimensions of a given hotspot.
Figure 3. Comparison of GeGI image converted to a 3D image,
3. Using the 3D modeling software, users should extract the area of each zone in m2. In SketchUp, this
can be done by using the "Select Tool" and right-clicking on a zone of interest and selecting "Area"
and "Selection."
4. This process needs to be completed for each location and zone of contamination.
Before proceeding, it is recommended that users already have documented the surface area of the
contaminated locations and associated activity level using a gamma-ray imaging device. This
information will be entered into the IRR-DST.
5.2 Home
The "Home" worksheet, the first screen the user sees when the workbook is launched, contains
information about the tool, instructions for use, a disclaimer, and assumptions. Users do not enter any
information on this worksheet (Figure 4).
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Integrated Radiological Remediation Decision Support Tool (IRR-DST)
About
This spreadsheet will provide a first order estimate of the amount of waste and resource demand based on a series of user specified
decontamination technologies for a given area.
Instructions for Use
1. Enter a scenario description on the "Results Summary" worksheet.
2. Review the default global factors and miscellaneous expenses values on the "Global Inputs" worksheet.
3. The "Site" worksheet captures information on the contaminated hot spot. A hot spot is defined as a combination of unique location ID and
zone ID (see Figure 1). By default, the "Site Inputs" worksheet is populated with four location ID and four zone IDs ("Bl", "B2, "B3", "B4"). To
create additional locations/zones, select the last row of data in the "Site Inputs" worksheet and copy down the necessary number of
additional rows. For each newly added row, make a copy of the "Calc" worksheet, give the copied "Calc" worksheet a unique worksheet name
representing the combination of Location ID and Zone ID (e.g., "A3"), and copy that name into the "Worksheet" column (Column C) on the
"Site Inputs" worksheet which corresponds to the newly created row. For each row in the "Site Inputs" worksheet, enter the following:
a. Location (e.g., "A", "B", "C", etc.)
b. Zone (e.g., "1", "2", "3", etc.)
c. Worksheet (i.e., the name of the corresponding "Calc" worksheet, for example, "B3")
d. Surface Area (i.e., the area, in square meters, of the contaminated surface representing the unique combination of Location ID and Zone
e. Initial Activity (i.e., the initial activity, in microcuries (pCi), of the contaminated surface representing the unique combination of Location
ID and Zone ID)
f. Target Activity (i.e., the desired final activity, in microcuries (nCi), of the contaminated surface representing the unique combination of
Location ID and Zone ID)
g. Select your preferred decontamination technology type, if any.
h. Select the result you wish to minimize (i.e., minimize time, cost, or waste)
i. A summary of the results of your inputs and selections on the "Site Inputs" worksheet are aggregated on the "Results Summary"
| user input | | result |
Important Note: Do not modify the contents or functions in any of these worksheets: "Calc" (and any copies of "Calc" e.g., "Bl"), "Tech Data," "Mech Tech Details," or "Chem Tech Details."
Disclaimer
This tool was created by the EPA, through ORD's Homeland Security Research Propgram (HSRP). The contents of this spreadsheet do not
necessarily reflect the views of the Agency. The EPA has not validated these results against any real-world radiological contamination
scenarios. Mention of trade names, products, or services does not convey official EPA approval, endorsement, or recommendation.
Assumptions
The estimated distribution of activity within surface material is based on Co-60 (see the "Rad Distribution" worksheet). The mechanical and
chemical decontamination technology performance data are based on tests conducted using Cs-137asthe contaminant (seethe "Tech Data"
worksheet). The recommendation of decontamination parameters listed in the "Site" tab reflect a potentially reasonable approach to
hacaH tho Ifnnmn rAnHminjtinn lonol 3nH cnrfara i«hirh ic Jcc.imoH tn rnncict pntirolw nf rnnrroto The actimato ic rnt
Version 6.0, April 2021
Figure 1. A hot spot location with four
zones (location/zone combination
"Bl" is shown)
Figure 4. Home worksheet,
53 Global Inputs
On the "Global Inputs" worksheet1, users enter the following required information (Figure 5). Note that
the data on these inputs is limited and site/location specific.
• Time elapsed since contamination, in days.
• Labor rate, in dollars per hour ($/h).
• Number of personnel for decontamination.
• A labor factor that can be used to scale the overall labor cost. This value is set to one (1) by
default.
• Waste disposal cost, in dollars per kilogram ($/kg).
• Miscellaneous expenses, if known or can be estimated. The "Miscellaneous Expenses" area of
the worksheet captures costs not specifically associated with a decontamination technology.
This section of the worksheet can be expanded to accommodate additional expenses. The
default values and titles listed in the "Miscellaneous Expenses" section can be modified to
reflect site-specific needs and information. The "Miscellaneous Expense Total" line should not
be removed, since it is directly linked and referenced in the "Results Summary" worksheet.
1 The spreadsheet includes example
parameters and expense inputs.
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Global Inputs
Global Factors
Time Elapsed Since Contamination (days)
Labor Rate ($/hr)
Personnel
Labor Factor
Waste Disposal Cost ($/kg)
Miscellaneous Expenses
365
100.00
3
1
2.08
Hours
Average
Loaded Labor
Rate ($/hr)
Cost
Description
Prior Expenses
0
$
$
Prior AMS decon tool results, etc.
Pre-decon Cost
Hours
Average
Loaded Labor
Rate ($/hr)
Cost
Description
Logistics
80
$ 100.00
$ 8,000
Additional equipment
0
$
$
ODC
PPE
0
$
$
ODC
Site preparation
40
$ 100.00
$ 4,000
Other
0
$
$
ODC
Subtotal
$ 12,000
Post-decon Cost
Hours
Average
Loaded Labor
Rate ($/hr)
Cost
Description
Clearance
40
$ 100.00
$ 4,000
Waste handling
40
$ 100.00
$ 4,000
Site breakdown
80
$ 100.00
$ 8,000
Other
0
$
$
ODC
Subtotal
$ 16,000
Miscellaneous Expense Total | $ 28,000 |
Figure 5. Global Inputs worksheet.
5.4 Rad Decay
The "Rad Decay" worksheet (Figure 6) can be used to estimate the activity level of radioactive
contaminant left after a given period of time or the length of time it would take for a given initial activity
of radioactive material to decay to a specified final activity level. This worksheet can be updated based
on a given isotope and half-life.
This worksheet includes two functions: 1) determine the remaining activity level after a specified decay
period, and 2) determine the time required to achieve a specified activity level. This worksheet functions
as a calculator/point of reference. The fields highlighted in yellow can be modified based on the isotope
of interest.
Radioactive Decay/Timed Decay
Description: use this spreadsheet to find out how much of a radioactive material is left after a given period of time or ho\
Radioactive Decay: A=Aoe-(0.693t/Tl/2) Timed Decay: t = -(Tl/2/0.693) * ln(A/Ao)
Radioactive Decay
Isotope
Co-60
Half-life (y)
5.3
Initial activity (Ao) (mCi)
0.361
Today
4/16/2021
Date of measurement
1/26/2000
Calc Decay time (t) (y)
21.2
Custom Decay time (t) (y)
0
for future activity, enter total years here; otherwise leave cell blank or =0
Final activity (A) (mCi)
0.0222
Timed Decay
Initial activity (Ao) (mCi)
3000
Desired final activity
0.05
Decay time (t) (y)
83.7
Figure 6. Rad Decay worksheet.
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5.5 Rad Distribution
The "Rad Distribution" worksheet (Figure 7) uses an exponential approximation of the relative
radionuclide distribution to estimate the distribution of a given radionuclide in concrete. Based on the
distribution of the depth of the radionuclide, a removal efficacy/depth is estimated.
The cells highlighted in yellow can be modified. However, this modification should be done only if users
are familiar with this topic, as modifying the exponential factor will affect the required removal depth
(i.e., number of passes) for mechanical decontamination technologies. The default factor was derived
from HSRP research on the fate and transport of radiocesium, radiostrontium, and radiocobalt on urban
building materials [2], Note that in order to generalize the distribution (depth) of multiple radionuclides
(i.e., 137Cs, 60Co, and 85Sr), a single exponent (cell B9) was used.
The "Site Inputs" worksheet discussed next uses a subset of this equation to estimate the number of
passes needed based on a given mechanical decontamination technology.
Radionuclide Distribution
Description: this sheet uses the exponential approximations of the relative radionuclide distribution to estimate the distribution c
FnAlin = A eBlm from hn for concrete
Calculate Activity Between Two Depths into Surface
Depth
(mm)
Activity
Removed
(uCi)
Total Activity, Ao (uCi):
6
0
0.00
Exponential Factor, c (1/mm):
-4.66
0.1
2.23
Initial Depth D1 (mm):
0
0.2
3.64
Final Depth D2 (mm):
1
0.3
4.52
Activity Between D1 and D2 (uCi):
5.94
0.4
5.07
% Removed:
99.05%
0.5
5.42
0.6
5.63
Calculate Depth to Remove to Achieve a Given Activity
0.7
5.77
Initial Activity (uCi):
5
0.8
5.86
Desired Final Activity (uCi):
0.05
0.9
5.91
Depth to Remove (mm):
0.988234
1
5.94
Activity Removed (uCi)
6 i
5 —¦— "
2 s
o
d
n
o
o
o
0.5
o
o
o
0.9
1
Figure 7. Rad Distribution worksheet.
5.6 Site Inputs
The "Site Inputs" worksheet captures user inputs on the location and extent of contamination for an
area of elevated activity within a room or location on a remediation site (a combination of a "Location"
and a "Zone"). This worksheet can be modified to accommodate smaller or larger scenarios.
For each combination of Location ID and Zone ID, users enter the following required information:
• Location ID (e.g., "A," "B," "C").
• Zone ID (e.g., "1," "2," "3").
• Worksheet (name of the copied "Calc" worksheet as described below).
• Surface area, in square meters (m2), of the Zone ID.
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• Initial activity, in microcuries (piCi), of the Zone ID.
• Target activity, in microcuries (|iCi), of the Zone ID.
• Preferred decontamination technology type (e.g., mechanical, chemical, or none).
• Result to minimize (i.e., cost, time, or waste).
By default, the "Site Inputs" worksheet contains four rows representing a single hot spot location and
four associated "Calc" worksheets (worksheets named "Bl," "B2," "B3," and "B4").
To add additional rows in the "Site Inputs" worksheet to account for additional hot spot locations, users
can simply do the following:
1. Highlight the last row in the table.
2. Right-click on the row number.
3. Select Copy (see Figure 8).
1
d\ A
c
D
E
F
G
H
Location/Zone Setup and Results
2
Location ID
Zone ID
Worksheet
Surface Area
(m2)
Initial Activity
(liCi)
Target Activity
M
Minimum
Required %R
Required
Removal Depth
(m/m2)
Pr
:
Tec
1
i
c
f
Calibri -
9 - A"
A" $ v % 5 11
m
is
6.35
9.7
0.05
0.99
0.001130442
B I =
0*
<
l>
4.98
6.2
0.05
0.99
0.001034395
c\
2.15
4.8
0.05
0.99
0.000979474
7
£
I
o
B4
1.25
2.1
0.05
0.98
0.000802075
Me
A Cut
needed
'
c
Q=) Copy
1
1
IS Paste
1
Options:
1
a
1
1
Haste special...
Figure 8. Copying rows in the Site Inputs worksheet.
4. Highlight the next empty row.
5. Right-click on the row number.
6. Select the Paste icon (see Figure 9).
A | B C
D
E
F G
H
1
Location/Zone Setup and Results
2
3
Location ID
Zone ID
Worksheet
Surface Area
(m2)
Initial Activity
(pCi)
Target Activity
(jiCi)
Minimum
Required %R
Required
Removal Depth
(m/m2)
Pr<
C
Tec
1
(s
4
5
B
1
Bl
6.35
9.7
0.05
0.99
0.001130442
B
2
B2
4.98
6.2
0.05
0.99
0.001034395
Ch
6
7
8
B
3
B3
2.15
4.8
0.05
0.99
0.000979474
.. .
__B4
1.25
2.1
0.05
0.98
0.000802075
Me
B
4
B4
1.25
2.1
0.05
0.98
0.000802075
Me
9
10
11
12
13
Paste Options:
14
a 6 & & & s
15
_1£_
Figure 9. Pasting rows into the Site Inputs worksheet.
10
-------
After copying the new row, enter the new Location ID, Zone ID, and Worksheet name (see
Figure 10). NOTE: this new Worksheet name will be used in the next step. Also enter the Surface
Area, Initial and Target Activities for the new Zone. The area and contamination information is
retrieved by projecting the gamma-ray imagery onto the 3D model, as described above.
A
B
c
D
E
F
G
H
1
Location/Zone Setup and Results
2
Prefi
Location ID
Zone ID
Worksheet
Surface Area
Initial Activity
Target Activity
Minimum
Required
Removal Depth
(m/m2)
De
Techr
Tyt
(m2)
(jiCi)
Required %R
3
(sel
4
B
1
B1
6.35
9.7
0.05
0.99
0.001130442
Nc
5
B
2
B2
4.98
6.2
0.05
0.99
0.001034395
Chei
6
B
3
B3
2.15
4.8
0.05
0.99
0.000979474
Nc
7
B
4
B4
1.25
2.1
0.05
0.98
0.000802075
Mech
8
C
1
CI
8.6
10.5
0.05
1.00
0.001147448
Mech
9
[Hi]
10
Figure 10. Entering new information for the new rows in the site inputs worksheet.
Next, select the "Calc" worksheet.
Right-click on the "Calc" worksheet tab and select "Move or Copy" (see Figure 11).
A
B C
D
E
F
G H
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
Technology
Type
Percent
Removal
Option Based
on Required
%R? (0=no,
l=yes)
Applications
Application
Rate (hr/m2)
Solid Waste
Mass per Unit
Area (kg/m2)
Liquid Waste
Volume per
Unit Area
(kg/m2)
Dust Director with Wire Brush
Mechanical
0.38
1
m/A
Dust Director with Diamond Flap Wheel
Mechanical
0.89
1
m/A
Sander
Mechanical
0.54
1
r m/A
Rotating Water Jet
Mechanical
0.36
1
m/A
Abrasive Blast n'Vac
Mechanical
0.96
1
r m/A
Allen-Vanguard SDF (Surface Decontamination Foam)
Chemical
0.29
r #N/A
7.00
40.00
50.00
Allen-Vanguard UDF (Universal Decontamination Formulation)
Chemical
0.37
#N/A
10.17
91.00
46.00
Argonne SuperGel (ASG)
Chemical
0.46
r #N/A
8.25
100.00
39.00
Bartlett Services Inc., StripcoatTLC Free™
Chemical
0.32
ftN/A
22.17
18.00
81.00
CBI Polymers DeconGel® 1101
Chemical
0.45
m/A
284.00
89.00
71.00
CBI Polymers DeconGel® 1108
Chemical
0.67
r #N/A
14.01
25.00
92.00
Environmental Alternatives, Inc. Rad-Release 1
Chemical
0.71
#N/A
3.08
61.00
45.00
Environmental Alternatives, Inc. Rad-Release II
Chemical
0.50
#N/A
6.08
57.00
49.00
Intek Technology LH-21
Chemical
0.45
#N/A
2.00
75.00
43.00
Isotron OrionTM Radiological Decontamination Strippable Coating
Chemical
0.04
r m/A
34.68
53.00
30.00
LLC "Quick Decon" Solutions (Foam)
Chemical
0.51
#N/A
2.22
**P
LLC "Quick Decon" Solutions (Liquid)
Chemical
0.53
r #N/A
4.44
insert... 3
[£x Delete
Karcher-Futuretech RDS 2000
Chemical
0.11
#N/A
1.17
21
IP Rename
22
23
Move or Copy...
24
25
[&! View Code
26
27
Protect Sheet...
28
lab Color >
29
30
Hide
31
32
Unhide...
33
34
Home Global Inputs Rad Decay Rad Distribution Site Inputs Results Summary Calc
Figure 11. Selecting the "Calc" worksheet to copy.
. In the "Move or Copy" dialog box, select the "Tech Data" worksheet, click the "Create a copy"
box, and click "OK" (see Figure 12).
11
-------
1
2
A
B
C D
E
F G H 1
Ec
a
Technology
Type
Percent
Removal
Option Based
on Required
%R? (0=no,
l=yes)
Applications
Application
Rate (hr/rr»2)
Solid Waste
Mass per Unit
Area (kg/m2)
Liquid Waste
Volume per
Unit Area
(kg/rr>2)
Waste
Disposal Cost
($/kg)
Dust Director with Wire Brush
Mechanical
0.38
#N/A
2.08
3
4
Dust Director with Diamond Flap Wheel
Mechanical
0.89
#N/A
2.08
Sander
Mechanical
0.54
ffN/A
2.08
5
6
7
8
9
10
Rotating Water Jet
Mechanical
0.36
#N/A
2.08
Abrasive Blast n'Vac
Mechanical
0.96
sn/a
2.08
Allen-Vanguard SDF (Surface Decontamination Foam)
Chemical
0.29
#N/A
1
7.00
40.00
50.00
2.08
Allen-Vanguard UDF (Universal Decontamination Formulation)
Chemical
0.37
#N/A
1
10.17
91.00
46.00
2.08
Argonne SuperGel (ASG)
Chemical
0.46
#N/A
1
8.25
100.00
39.00
2.08
Bartlett Services Inc., StripcoatTLC Free™
Chemical
0.32
#N/A
1
22.17
18.00
81.00
2.08
11
12
13
CBI Polymers DeconGel® 1101
Chemical
0.45
#N/A
1
284.00
89.00
71.00
2.08
CBI Polymers DeconGel® 1108
Chemical
0.67
r #N/A
1
14.01
25.00
92.00
2.08
Environmental Alternatives, Inc. Rad-Release I
Chemical
0.71
#N/A
1
3.08
61.00
45.00
2.08
-
14
15
Environmental Alternatives, Inc. Rad-Release II
Chemical
0.50
#N/A
Move or Copy ? X
Intek Technology LH-21
Chemical
0.45
#N/A
16
17
Isotron OrionTM Radiological Decontamination Strippable Coating
Chemical
0.04
#N/A
LLC "Quick Decon" Solutions (Foam)
Chemical
0.51
#N/A
To book:
18
LLC "Quick Decon" Solutions (Liquid)
Chemical
0.53
#N/A
Hot Spot Calculator v6.0.xlsx
19
20
Karcher-Futuretech RDS 2000
Chemical
0.11
#N/A
iefore sheet:
21
Calc a
22
B1
2 i
B2
24
2b
2b
Mech Tech Details
27
Chem Tech Details v
28
29
30
OK Cancel
31
1
32
33
34
Home Global Inputs Rad Decay Rad Distribution Site Inputs Results Summary Calc
B1 B2
B3 B4 Tech Data
Figure 12. Copying the "Calc" worksheet.
11. The newly copied worksheet will be given a default name, so right-click on the newly copied
worksheet tab name and select "Rename" (Figure 13).
3Tos
5TTJCT
3OT
ZUSl 1V6.51| TOD
2.22
10.00
53.00
Insert..
S|< Delete
:
¦-
C
4.44
51.00
75.00
1.17
95.00
23.00
^ Rename
Move or Copy...
02] View Code
5^ Erotect Sheet-
lab Color >
Hide
Unhide...
Select All Sheets
Calc
B1 | B2
B3 B4 Calc (2)
c
Figure 13. Renaming the copied "Calc" worksheet.
12. Type in the name to match the "Worksheet" name entered for the newly created row on the
"Site Inputs" worksheet (from Step 7 above; in this example the Worksheet is named "CI") (see
Figure 14).
nary Calc
B1 B2
B3 | B4 CI Tech Dal
Figure 14. Naming the new worksheet.
12
-------
13. Add additional rows (for additional locations and zones) by repeating the above process (steps
1-13).
Note that any changes made to the "Site Info" worksheet might impact calculations throughout the
workbook, including the results. An extensive review should be conducted to ensure formulae are
operating as intended. This review is especially important when expanding the "Site Info" worksheet.
5.7 Results Summary
After entering all information on the "Global inputs" and "Site Inputs" worksheets (and following the
necessary steps 1-13 in Section 5.6), the results are aggregated and summarized on the "Results
Summary" worksheet (Figure 15). Users can find additional information for each decontamination
technology on the "Mech Tech Details" and "Chem Tech Details" worksheets. Users can enter a scenario
description on this worksheet for documentation purposes but should not otherwise modify the
"Results Summary" worksheet (or the "Mech Tech Details" and "Chem Tech Details" worksheets).
Results Summary Integrated Radiological Remediation Decision Support Tool (IRR-DST), Version 6.0 (April 2021)
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development
Scenario Description
[provide]
Results Summary
Total Impacted Area
14.7 m2
Total Activity
22.8 nCi
Lowest Targeted Activity
0.1 nCi
Total Activity Following Decon
0.2 nCi
Percent Reduction (%R)
99.8 %
Total Time
7.5 hr
Total Cost
33,325 $
Total Waste
36.9 kg
Waste Activity
16.5 nCi
0.45 uCi/kg
Decontamination Technology
Type
Applications
Total
Surface
Area (m2)
Activity
Removed
(pCi)
Total Time
(hr)
Total Cost
($>
Total Waste
(kg)
Waste
Activity
(uci)
Waste
Activity
(jiCi/kg)
Dust Director with Wire Brush
Mechanical
2.00
2.15
4.75
3.68
2,114
4.56
4.75
1.04
Dust Director with Diamond Flap Wheel
Mechanical
2.00
7.60
11.70
3.81
3,211
32.38
11.70
0.74
Sander
Mechanical
Rotating Water Jet
Mechanical
Abrasive Blast n'Vac
Mechanical
Allen-Vanguard SDF (Surface Decontamination Foam)
Chemical
Allen-Vanguard UDF (Universal Decontamination Formulation)
Chemical
Argonne SuperGel (ASG)
Chemical
Argonne SuperGel (ASG)
Chemical
Bartlett Services Inc., StripcoatTLC Free™
Chemical
CBl Polymers Decon Gel® 1101
Chemical
CBI Polymers DeconGel® 1108
Chemical
Environmental Alternatives, Inc. Rad-Release 1
Chemical
Environmental Alternatives, Inc. Rad-Release II
Chemical
Environmental Alternatives, Inc. Rad-Release II
Chemical
Intek Technology LH-21
Chemical
Isotron OrionTM Radiological Decontamination Strippable Coating
Chemical
LLC "Quick Decon" Solutions (Foam)
Chemical
LLC "Quick Decon" Solutions (Liquid)
Chemical
Karcher-Futuretech RDS 2000
Chemical
Disclaimer
These results were generated by the Integrated Radiological Remediation Decision Support Tool (IRR-DST), a tool created by the EPA through ORD's Homeland Security Research
Program (HSRP). The contents of the tool do not necessarily reflect the views of the Agency. The EPA has not validated these results against any real-world radiological
contamination scenarios. Mention of trade names, products, or services does not convey official EPA approval, endorsement, or recommendation.
Assumptions
The estimated distribution of activity within surface material is based on Co-60. The mechanical and chemical decontamination technology performance data are based on tests
rnnrinrtPH ucinp C<;-H7 ThP mntaminant ThP rprnmmpnriatinn nf rtprnntam inarinn naramPtPrc rpfiprr a nnrpnfiallv rP^nnahlP annrnarh fn riprnntaminatirm hatPfl fhP known
Figure 15. Results Summary worksheet.
13
-------
If users have any questions, please email the principal investigator listed in the "Disclaimer" section at
the front of this document.
6 TROUBLESHOOTING
This chapter provides solutions to commonly found problems that users might encounter while using
the IRR-DST. It is recommended that users confirm software and hardware compatibility (information
found in Section 4 of this document) before continuing.
Problem
Cause
Remedy
Excel asks to save even if
changes have not been made.
A few links might have been
updated on startup without the
user's knowledge. This is typical
of Excel.
Unless users have made any
updates to the workbook, it is
not recommended that users
save the document.
At the startup of the workbook,
Microsoft Excel displays a
warning asking to update the
links contained in the
workbook.
The workbook contains links to
other workbooks or files (called
source files), and when the
source files are changed, then
the links in workbook might
display information that is out
of date and therefore needs to
be updated.
Click the "Update" button
One of the cells reads as
"#DIV/0"
A variable that that cell is trying
to use was likely deleted.
Review the worksheet for
missing information or start
over from scratch.
7 REFERENCES
1. PHDS, Gamma-ray Imaging with GeGI at the Advanced Medical Systems Site: Data Analysis and
Report. 2015.
2. K. Maslova, I. Stepina, A. Konoplev, V. Popov, A. Gusarov, F. Pankratov, S.D. Lee, N. Il'icheva., Fate
and transport of radiocesium, radiostrontium and radiocobalt on urban building materials. Journal
of Environmental Radioactivity, 2013; 125:74-80. doi: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2013.01.013. Epub 2013
Feb 9. PMID: 23399030.
3. US EPA, Evaluation of Five Technologies for the Mechanical Removal of Radiological Contamination
from Concrete Surfaces. 2011, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC, EPA/600/S-
11/004, 2011.
4. U.S. EPA, Technology Evaluation Report, Decontamination of Concrete with Aged and Recent Cesium
Contamination. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC. EPA/600/R-13/001, 2013.
5. U.S. EPA, Technology Evaluation Report, Bartlett Services, Inc. Stripcoat TLC Free Radiological
Decontamination Strippable Coating. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.
EPA/600/R-08/099, 2008.
6. U.S. EPA, Technology Evaluation Report, CBI Polymers DeconGel® 1101 and 1108 for Radiological
Decontamination. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC. EPA/600/R-11/084, 2011.
7. U.S. EPA, Technology Evaluation Report, Environmental Alternatives, Inc. Rad-Release I and II for
Radiological Decontamination. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC. EPA/600/R-
11/083, 2011.
14
-------
8. U.S. EPA, Technology Evaluation Report, Decontamination of Cesium, Cobalt, Strontium, and
Americium from Porous Surfaces. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.
EPA/600/R-13/232, 2013.
9. U.S. EPA, Technology Evaluation Report, Isotron Orion Radiological Decontamination Strippable
Coating. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC. EPA/600/R-08/100, 2008.
10. U.S. EPA, Technology Evaluation Report, Radiation Decontamination Solutions, LLC "Quick Decon"
Solutions for Radiological Decontamination. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC.
EPA/600/R-11/086, 2011.
15
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