During nuclear facility decommissioning, the release of tritiated particulate matter from contaminated stainless steel and cement poses potential dermal exposure risks for workers and nearby environments. This study investigates the transdermal behavior of tritium ( 3 H) released from tritiated stainless steel (TSSPs) and cement particles (TCPs), two matrices differing in physicochemical composition and hydrogen-binding properties. Using in vitro Franz diffusion cells and excised human skin, 3 H permeation was evaluated under intact, damaged, abraded, and decontaminated skin conditions. Intact skin provided an effective barrier, whereas compromised epidermal integrity markedly enhanced 3 H diffusion and retention. Differences in 3 H release kinetics between particle types were associated with their surface characteristics and mechanisms of 3 H binding, solid-solution entrapment in TSSPs versus isotopic exchange and surface adsorption in TCPs. The persistence of 3 H within partially damaged skin suggests potential formation of organically bound tritium (OBT), indicating localized and sustained radiobiological exposure. Importantly, simple water decontamination significantly reduced 3 H permeation, supporting its practical relevance in occupational dermal protection. These findings provide insight into the material interactions and dermal safety implications of tritiated particulates, contributing to risk assessment strategies in radiological and material exposure contexts. • Tritiated stainless steel and cement particles were assessed for dermal permeation. • In vitro tests with human skin simulated different environmental exposure conditions. • Skin damage strongly enhanced tritium diffusion and retention within the tissue. • Material-specific release mechanisms affected tritium mobility and skin transfer. • Results support environmental risk assessment and worker protection strategies.
Magnano et al. (Fri,) studied this question.