Radiation consequences of a hypothetical failure of a DAM at the coolant reservoir of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant

Mathematical simulation is used to estimate the possible radiation consequences of an accidental failure of the protective dam of the coolant reservoir at the Chernobyl nuclear power plant. The dynamics of the emptying of the reservoir and the escape of radionuclides is calculated. The additional contamination of bottom deposits in the Dnepr River, which can be caused by the accidental escape of radioactive substances from the coolant reservoir, is estimated. The additional dose load to the public is estimated taking account of the food chains. A single-step mathematical model, taking account of the contamination of the water and the bottom deposits, is constructed to study the fish food chain. It is established that for an accidental failure of the protective dam of the coolant reservoir of the nuclear power plant the dose to the public will not exceed 2.5.10 super(-3) Sv in the first year after the failure. Therefore, the destruction of the protective dam of the coolant reservoir of the Chernobyl nuclear power plant, if it occurs, will not be a radiation accident, 2. figures, 1 table, 9 references.