Atmospheric deposition of 137Cs between 1994 and 2002 at Cienfuegos, Cuba

Levels of 137Cs in total atmospheric deposition have been measured in the Cienfuegos region (Cuba) between 1994 and 2002. Samples were collected every three months, evaporated to dryness to obtain residual samples, and measured by gamma spectrometry. The 137Cs mean concentration in total deposition was 0.24 Bq m−2 and data ranged between <0.05 and 0.62 Bq m−2. Precipitation rates and raintime have proved to be the most important factors controlling the concentration and depositional flux of 137Cs in the atmosphere over Cienfuegos, showing a high correlation coefficient (R = 0.93).