To gain insight into the factors that control 234Th scavenging onto particles, in this study, both, laboratory experiments and field measurements were conducted. It could be observed that the particle quality and especially, the particle surface area plays a crucial role in 234Th adsorption process. In addition, the results support the assumption that colloidal material influence 234Th scavenging and acts as intermediate in 234Th uptake onto particles. The results of this study can be helpful for the interpretation of 234Th bases data and the application of 234Th as particle tracer.