CBRN Threats to Ukraine During the Russian Aggression: Mitigating Gamma Radiation Hazards - Innovative Countermeasures and Decontamination Strategies in the Context of Potential Destruction of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant

This paper investigates potential countermeasures to mitigate the disastrous effects of gamma radiation exposure in the event of a possible destruction of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant,Ukraine’s largest nuclear facility, due to escalating conflicts. The potential destruction could resultin an unparalleled release of gamma radiation, posing significant threats to human health and the environment. By examining the radiological dangers of gamma radiation, past case studies of radiation exposure, current countermeasures, as well as the limitations and challenges of these strategies, we may provide a comprehensive overview of the multidimensional nature of this potential crisis. The paper also explores innovative approaches in decontamination under resource constraints, focusing on dry decontamination, the use of alternative fluids, and the effective management of decontamination effluents.