No full-text available
To read the full-text of this research,
you can request a copy directly from the author.
Investigation of radioactivity level in drinking water resources and soil samples collected from the Hawraman villages, Iraq
Abstract
In the present study, the RAD7 and NaI(Tl) techniques were utilized to determine the radon concentrations in drinking water resources and the natural primordial radionuclides in soil samples collected from Hawraman villages. The measured radon concentrations ranged from 1.7 ± 0.6 to 34.0 ± 2.8 Bq L-1 with an arithmetic mean of 14.8 ± 1.2 Bq L-1. This research demonstrates that roughly 54% of drinking water samples exceed the EPA-recommended level of 11.1 Bq L-1. For adults, children, and infants, the total annual effective doses for the three types (Ding, Dinh, and Ddi) vary from 7.6 to 149.2 μSv y-1 with an average of 65.0 μSv y-1, 8.1-160.0 μSv y-1 with an average of 69.7 μSv y-1, and 10.5-207.0 μSv y-1 with an average of 90.2 μSv y-1.18.2%, 22.7%, and 36.4%, respectively, of the annual effective dose for adults, children, and infants exceeds the 100 μSv y-1 level recommended by WHO and UNCEAR 2000. The activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 4 K in soil samples varied from 10.9 ± 0.1 to 32.6 ± 0.2 Bq kg-1, 18.3 ± 0.4 to 52.1 ± 0.6 Bq kg-1, and 252.7 ± 2.5 to 585.6 ± 3.7 Bq kg-1. The arithmetic mean concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 4 K were determined to be 19.4 ± 0.2 Bq kg-1, 36.2 ± 0.5 Bq kg-1and 426.6 ± 3.2 Bq kg-1, respectively. This research reveals that the average soil activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 4 K are within the global average limits of 32, 45, and 420 Bq kg-1, respectively. Comparing the concentrations to global averages, some soil samples revealed significant amounts of radionuclides, with around 18% of 232Th and 41% of 4 K. The computed radiological hazard indices of 100% of Raeq., 82% of Dout, 82% of Eout, and 95.5% of ELCRout are all below the internationally recommended levels declared by Unscear 2000.
... In addition, 40 K was determined from 1460.8 keV (10.7%). For the activity concentrations (A C ) of primordial radionuclides in rock samples, the following equation was used: (Jafir, 2023): ...
... The estimated absorbed dose rate ranges from ND (R12) to 147.74 nGy/h (R7); the maximum values are nearly twice the worldwide mean value of 59 nGy/h (Annex, 2000;Jafir, 2023), indicating that 28.57% of the calculated absorbed dose rate resulting from natural radioactive nuclides within the air for the studied area is above the allowed internationally recommended value. The outdoor annual effective doses of the public in the Kurdistan region due to exposure range from ND (R12) to 0.18 mSv/y (R7), whereas the indoor annual effective doses varied from ND (R12) to 0.72 mSv/y (R7), which indicates that 33.34% and 28.57% of the rock samples are outside the range of 0.07 mSv/y and 0.41 mSv/y for both types, respectively, as declared by (on the Effects of Atomic Radiation and others, 2008). ...
This research investigates the radioactivity levels of various rock types used in construction within the Kurdistan region and assesses their potential impact on human health, the measurements were performed using an HPGe gamma-ray spectrometer. The measured activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K radionuclides varied from ND (Chromitite) to 78.68 ± 4.54 Bq/kg (Marly Limestone), ND (Chromitite) to 109.52 ± 10.23 Bq/kg (Mudstone), and ND (Chromitite) to 2973.6 ± 152.1 Bq/kg (Claystone), respectively. The obtained Raeq values for all rock samples are well below the UNSCEAR, 2008 recommended value of 370 Bq/kg. 71.43% of DR, 66.66% of Eout, 71.43% of Ein, 100% of Hinand Hout, 71.43% of ELCRout, 71.43% of ELCRin, and 100% of activity utilization index of the rock samples are well below the recommended values declared by UNSCEAR, 2008. The radioactivity level of rock types that are prepared as building materials should be assessed by the producers and considered by the users to reduce the overall cancer risk. The outcomes of the RESRAD-BUILD computer code indicate that the maximum external and inhalation doses were calculated to be 19.7 and 0.105 μSv for R7 and R1 samples, respectively, over a period of 70 years.
... In addition, 40 K was determined from 1460.8 keV (10.7%). For the activity concentrations (A C ) of primordial radionuclides in rock samples, the following equation was used: (Jafir, 2023): ...
... The estimated absorbed dose rate ranges from ND (R12) to 147.74 nGy/h (R7); the maximum values are nearly twice the worldwide mean value of 59 nGy/h (Annex, 2000;Jafir, 2023), indicating that 28.57% of the calculated absorbed dose rate resulting from natural radioactive nuclides within the air for the studied area is above the allowed internationally recommended value. The outdoor annual effective doses of the public in the Kurdistan region due to exposure range from ND (R12) to 0.18 mSv/y (R7), whereas the indoor annual effective doses varied from ND (R12) to 0.72 mSv/y (R7), which indicates that 33.34% and 28.57% of the rock samples are outside the range of 0.07 mSv/y and 0.41 mSv/y for both types, respectively, as declared by (on the Effects of Atomic Radiation and others, 2008). ...
This research investigates the radioactivity levels
of various rock types used in construction within the Kurdistan
region and assesses their potential impact on human health,
the measurements were performed using an HPGe gamma-ray
spectrometer. The measured activity concentrations of 226Ra,
232Th, and 40K radionuclides varied from ND (Chromitite)
to 78.68 ± 4.54 Bq/kg (Marly Limestone), ND (Chromitite)
to 109.52 ± 10.23 Bq/kg (Mudstone), and ND (Chromitite) to
2973.6 ± 152.1 Bq/kg (Claystone), respectively. The obtained
Raeq values for all rock samples are well below the UNSCEAR,
2008 recommended value of 370 Bq/kg. 71.43% of DR, 66.66%
of Eout, 71.43% of Ein, 100% of Hin and Hout, 71.43% of ELCRout,
71.43% of ELCRin, and 100% of activity utilization index of the
rock samples are well below the recommended values declared by
UNSCEAR, 2008. The radioactivity level of rock types that are
prepared as building materials should be assessed by the producers
and considered by the users to reduce the overall cancer risk. The
outcomes of the RESRAD-BUILD computer code indicate that the
maximum external and inhalation doses were calculated to be 19.7
and 0.105 μSv for R7 and R1 samples, respectively, over a period
of 70 years.
... Where AED ing is effective dose resulting from the ingestion in (mSv year − 1 ),C Rn is the 222 Rn concentration in water in (Bq L − 1 ), L w is the annual consumption of drinking water for each age category in (L y − 1 ). In accordance with the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR), the annual water consumption varies by age category, with adult consuming 500 (L y − 1 ), child consuming 350 (L y − 1 ), and infant consuming 150 (L y − 1 ), (UNSCEAR 2000;Tan et al. 2019;Jafir 2023). DCF ing is the dose conversion factor for ingestion, as recommended by the UNSCEAR Report 2000 for the three age categories: 3.5 × 10 − 6 mSv Bq − 1 for adult, 5.9 × 10 − 6 mSv Bq − 1 for child, and 2.3 × 10 − 5 mSv Bq − 1 for infant. ...
... Environmental Earth Sciences and 150 L y − 1 ) for adult, child, and infant, respectively (UNSCEAR 2000;Jafir 2023;Singla et al. 2023). ...
Radon is present in most groundwater hosted by geological formations rich in uranium. It is a gas that dissolves easily in water, poses a potential health risk when present in water used in homes. For this purpose, an exploring study of radon concentration in groundwater was conducted in three selected areas in Morocco (the Anti-Atlas, the High Atlas and the Bahira areas) using RAD-7 detector. The radon contents measured in the 34 groundwater samples, range from 0.36 to 577.1 Bq L− 1, with average of 52.99 Bq L− 1. Among them, only three samples exceed the accepted limit of 100 Bq L− 1, established by the world health organization and the European Commission. Considering the level recommended by U.S. environmental protection agency, 67.64% of the samples measured had concentrations greater than 11.1 Bq L− 1. These results indicate significantly higher ²²²Rn concentrations in the groundwater of the Anti-Atlas compared to the High Atlas and occidental Meseta. This disparity could be attributed to the variation in lithology between these three different regions, as the granites are mainly the primary sources of radon in the region. The obtained annual effective doses show values ranging from 0 mSv y− 1 to 2.10 mSv y− 1 for the three regions, with samples in the Anti-Atlas and Bahira exceeding the safety limit of 0.1 mSv y− 1 proposed by both the WHO and the European Commission. This exploring study is important for both the environment and human health since it can provide important information for radon-related regulations and programs.
... Because radon emits energetic alpha particles, it is known to be a human carcinogen. When radon gas is ingested or inhaled into the body, it combines with water molecules to produce extremely reactive free radicals that damage DNA cells in the lungs and eventually cause cancer (Edsfeldt, 2001;Jafir, 2023). The consumption of radon ( 222 Rn) through drinking water has been linked with cancers such as stomach cancer, urinary tract cancer, leukemia, kidney diseases, renal damage, bone damage, etc. (Jafir, 2023;Ajiboye et al., 2022;Zamora et al., 2009;WHO, 2004). ...
... When radon gas is ingested or inhaled into the body, it combines with water molecules to produce extremely reactive free radicals that damage DNA cells in the lungs and eventually cause cancer (Edsfeldt, 2001;Jafir, 2023). The consumption of radon ( 222 Rn) through drinking water has been linked with cancers such as stomach cancer, urinary tract cancer, leukemia, kidney diseases, renal damage, bone damage, etc. (Jafir, 2023;Ajiboye et al., 2022;Zamora et al., 2009;WHO, 2004). For radiation protection purposes and environmental health concerns, it is crucial to carry out the radiotoxicity and health risks assessment of naturally occurring radionuclides such as 222 Rn in groundwater from granitic geological areas like the study area. ...
... Figures 5c, d, and e show weak correlations (r < 0.3) between the activity concentrations of 226 Ra and some chemical properties of water. For freshwater, such correlations are normally unclear (Baeza et al. 1995;Ahmad et al. 2019;Adeeb 2023). ...
Open-pit mining disturbs the earth’s surface, impacts geological characteristics, and releases many pollutants including heavy metals, radionuclides, and poisonous gases into the environment. This study investigated the difference between the activity levels of ²²⁶Ra radionuclide in the abandoned quarry region (region A) and the active quarry region (region B). In the surface soil, the mean values of activity concentrations were 40 Bq kg⁻¹ and 55 Bq kg⁻¹ in region A and region B, respectively. The statistical analysis shows that the obtained values of ²²⁶Ra concentrations in Region B are higher and more dispersed than those in Region A. For four study quarry lakes, the ranges of activity concentrations in water and sediment were (0–19.4 mBq L⁻¹) and (25–71 Bq kg⁻¹), respectively. The levels of ²²⁶Ra in lake water are within the recommended value of 0.74 Bq L⁻¹ of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) for radiation safety. This water can be considered for drinking, agricultural irrigation, and fish farming. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) estimated the soil loss due to soil erosion in the abandoned quarries. It was predicted that the soil erosion degrees in the study area were from very low class to moderately high class according to soil loss classification. The Quantitative Water, Air, Sediment Interaction (QWASI) was validated to predict ²²⁶Ra activity concentrations in the water and sediment of quarry lakes. Based on Student’s t-test, the predicted values of ²²⁶Ra activity concentrations for study quarry lakes agreed with the measured values (confidence interval 95%).
... represents sample mass, and is the detector's absolute gamma peak efficiency at a specific gamma radiation energy. The following formula was used to determine the minimal detectable activity (MDA) (Jafir, 2023): ...
... Many studies have shown that ACs of natural radionuclides, such as pH, TDS, and EC, do not correlate with the chemical properties of water. Others have found a relationship between them, but the correlation was not clear (|p|< 0.6) [10,40,41]. Figure 2 shows the strong linear correlations found between the sampling depths and the ACs of the radionuclides (Pearson correlation coefficient, p > 0.8). ...
The abandonment of stone quarries establishes a quarry lake ecosystem that includes soil, water, fish, and vegetarian cover. The activity concentrations (ACs) of natural radionuclides in the waters of several quarry lakes worldwide have not been investigated. In addition, the features of radionuclides, such as distribution, seasonal variability, and health risks, have not been studied. In this study, the ACs of 226 Ra, 234 U, and 238 U were measured in a typical quarry lake in Vietnam with an area of approximately 4000 m 2. The average ACs of 226 Ra, 234 U, and 238 U were 8.3, 13.8, and 17.7 mBq L −1 , respectively. The ratios of 226 Ra/ 234 U, 226 Ra/ 238 U, and 234 U/ 238 U were 0.47, 0.6, and 0.79, respectively. A linear correlation was found between ACs and water depth. The ACs predicted by the QWASI (Quantitative Water, Air, Sediment Interaction) model agree with the measured values.
Studying the radiation hazards in volcanic environments is of paramount importance due to the often-present thermal activity, exemplified by phenomena like hot springs, fumaroles, and geysers. These features contribute to the release of radioactive elements and heavy metals, presenting significant threats to both human health and the environment. This study aims to assess the concentration of natural radiation and heavy metals and the associated environmental hazards in the Al-Lisi volcanic mountain in Dhamar city, Yemen. Nineteen different samples, including hot spring water, soil, plants, and groundwater, were collected. These samples were detected using a high-purity germanium detector. The concentrations of 226Ra in these samples were measured at 185.91 Bq L−1 in water, 373.95 Bq kg−1 in soil, 111.10 Bq kg−1 in plants, and 1.44 Bq L−1 in groundwater; for 232Th, concentrations were 138.62 Bq L−1, 507.08 Bq kg−1, 141.5 Bq kg−1, and 1.77 Bq L−1; and for 40K, concentrations were 448.47 Bq L−1, 1084.45 Bq kg−1, 928.07 Bq kg−1, and 13.08 Bq L−1, respectively. Radium equivalent activity and absorbed gamma dose in the air due to these nuclides, as well as external hazard index, and annual effective dose, were calculated for all samples, the overall results indicated that the study area poses higher radiological hazards than the globally recommended values. Moreover, variations in environmental pollution levels due to heavy metal concentrations were observed. The results are concerning, and we suggest detailed geological and radiological analyses to understand, address, and devise appropriate solutions.
A study was conducted to assess the concentrations of primordial radionuclides in fifteen sandy soil samples collected from a newly discovered Guliakhali sea beach in Bangladesh by HPGe gamma-ray spectrometry. The specific activity of soil samples varied from 25 ± 3 to 130 ± 11 Bqkg −1 , from 15 ± 2 to 70 ± 6 Bqkg −1 and from 200 ± 16 to 880 ± 43 Bqkg −1 for 226 Ra, 232 Th and 40 K respectively. Although a few samples showed comparatively higher radiation level and associated doses possibly because of the ship breaking industry located nearby, overall, most of the values of annual effective dose are less than the worldwide average value of 1 mSvy −1 .
The current study presents a radiological water-quality assessment on 64 spring water samples from four Romanian counties. The study area is abundant in CO 2 -rich spring waters consumed by locals and tourists. Gross alpha activities ranged between 21 ± 2 and 7530 ± 658 mBq L ⁻¹ , with 27% of the samples exceeding the WHO threshold. Gross beta values ranged from 40 ± 2 to 5520 ± 430 mBq L ⁻¹ , with 29% exceeding the recommended values. Radionuclide activities fluctuated between 0.6 ± 0.08 and 81 ± 6 Bq L ⁻¹ for ²²² Rn, 15 ± 2 to 1154 ± 112 mBq L ⁻¹ for ²²⁶ Ra, and from 18 ± 2 to 64 ± 5 mBq L ⁻¹ for ²¹⁰ Po. The annual effective doses attributed to radium varied between 0.002 and 0.23 mSv yr ⁻¹ .
222Rn and 226Ra concentrations of less than a few to several thousands of Bq L−1 have been observed in several underground bodies of water around the world. Although regulations for these concentrations in water have been implemented internationally, there are currently no regulations in place in Japan. However, concentrations that exceed these internationally recognized regulatory values have also been observed in Japan. In this study, concentrations in spring water in the northern part of Japan were measured and the effective dose from intake of the water was evaluated. 222Rn concentrations were measured using a liquid scintillation counter, and 226Ra concentrations were measured using a high purity germanium detector after chemical preparation. The measured 222Rn concentrations (=12.7 ± 6.1 Bq L−1) and 226Ra concentrations (<0.019–0.022 Bq L−1) did not exceed the reference values set by international and European/American organizations. A conservative estimate of the annual effective ingestion dose of 8 μSv for 222Rn and 226Ra obtained in this study is much smaller than the estimated overall annual effective dose of 2.2 mSv from natural radiation to the Japanese population. However, this dosage accounts for 8% of the WHO individual dosing criteria of 0.1 mSv/year for drinking water.
Radon and heavy metals are sources of groundwater pollution and are identified as potential carcinogens. Southwest Nigeria's populace mostly relies on groundwater source for drinking. This study aims to map radon distribution in groundwater of southwest Nigeria and to determine the health risk of radon and heavy metal in drinking water. Radon concentrations of 145 groundwater samples were measured using RAD7 electronic radon detector and heavy metal concentrations of 52 groundwater samples were measured using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Radon concentration distributions were delineated using geographical information system. Radon concentration of water samples ranges between 1.6 Bq l⁻¹ and 271 Bq l⁻¹ with an average value of 35.9 ± 38.4 Bq l⁻¹. The average groundwater radon concentration is higher than US-EPA recommended level of 11.1 Bq l⁻¹ but lower than the WHO recommended limit of 100 Bq l⁻¹. The estimated average annual effective radiation doses to infants, children, and adults are 29 μSvy−1, 41 μSvy−1 and 92 μSvy−1 respectively. The radon distribution map of the study area reveals regions of high, medium, and low groundwater radon concentrations. The average concentration values of heavy metals in groundwater samples are of the order Mn > Zn > Pb > Cu > Cr > Ni > Cd. 84% of groundwater exhibits good to excellent quality in terms of heavy metal pollution. However, about 16% of the samples which lie in the sedimentary regions of Ogun and Lagos States exhibit poor to very poor quality. Overall, ingestion of groundwater in the study area may not pose a serious health hazards from radon ingestion and heavy metal toxicity.
Since the existence of the world, human beings have been exposed to natural radiation. Determining the natural radiation level and the radiological parameters is very important in terms of determining the amount of radiation people will be exposed to. Since the population of Istanbul is very high, the number of people that will be affected by the radiation level there is high. In this study, it was aimed to determine the natural radiation level and radiological parameters in Cekmeköy district of Istanbul. For this, natural radionuclides were measured with gamma spectroscopy system based on NaI(Tl) detector for 17 soil samples collected from Cekmeköy-Istanbul. As a result of this study, the mean activity concentrations of 40 K, 226Ra, and 232Th obtained as a result of the measurements were found to be 449 ± 9, 29 ± 1, and 28 ± 1 Bqkg−1, respectively. Mean absorbed dose rate (DR) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) were calculated as 49 nGyh−1 and 0.21 × 10−3, respectively. Basic statistics were performed to determine the relationship between the activity concentrations of radionuclides and radiological parameters. In conclusion, mean natural radioactivity and radiological parameter levels are calculated lower than the world average.
The activity concentration of natural 226 Ra, 232 Th, and 40 K radionuclides was examined in some selected locations in Aliaga Bay of Izmir district, Turkey. Sediment samples from 30 locations were collected and analyzed for radionuclides activity concentration by gamma-ray spectrometry using a high-purity germanium HPGe gamma-ray detector. The activity concentrations of the sediment samples range from 23.5 ± 1.7 to 59.5 ± 1.6 Bq kg −1 for 226 Ra, 37.5 ± 0.9 to 64.4 ± 0.6 Bq kg −1 for 232 Th, and 354.7 ± 5.6 to 978.4 ± 5.8 Bq kg −1 for 40 K. Based on the obtained results, the radiological parameters were evaluated. The mean values for absorbed dose rate, annual effective dose equivalent, radium equivalent activity, external hazard index, and excess lifetime cancer risk were determined and found as 81.64 nGy h −1 , 100.13 μSv y −1 , 173.31 Bq kg −1 , 0.47, and 0.40, respectively. Calculated radiological parameters of sediment samples were compared with the World Standard Value. The results obtained in this study were found to be above the globally standard limit for most locations. Statistical data such as skewness and kurtosis were calculated, and frequency distribution, Pearson's correlation analysis, box plot, factor analysis, and cluster analysis were applied in order to assess the distribution of radiological parameters and relationship between them.
The radioactive field is important for the human health due to the biologic impact that the radiation might cause (e.g., cancer induction), so it must be studied to see the changes in the doses of human exposure. In this study, 114 soil samples were collected from different locations in residential areas within the Baghdad governorate. The specific gamma-ray activity of the naturally occurring radionuclides ²³⁸U, ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K for soil samples was measured spectroscopically using a NaI(Tl) detector. The results of the Karkh side show that the average value of specific activity of terrestrial gamma radiation (²³⁸U, ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K) was (16.5 ± 0.9) Bq/kg, (9.7 ± 0.4) Bq/kg and (368 ± 11) Bq/kg, respectively. The results of the Rasafa side show that the average value of the specific activity of ²³⁸U, ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K in samples of the present study were (17.4 ± 1.0) Bq/kg, (9.1 ± 0.3) Bq/k and (381 ± 22) Bq/kg, respectively. The results show that across the area, the natural radioactivity lies within the acceptable level as indicated by UNSCEAR 2008. It is subjected to the natural spatial averaging of the estimations, with the except for the sample (R3) which needs future study. GIS tools were used to map the specific activity for all samples in this study, which were divided into two groups: Karkh side and Rasafa side for simplified results.
Radon activity concentration in water samples from Perak state Malaysia and their possible health risk was assessed. The Samples were from lakes, hot springs, and rivers. The RAD7 Detector was used for in-situ measurement of radon concentration. The radon activity concentration ranged from 0.04 ± 0.08 — 3.98 ± 0.39 Bq l – 1 , with mean of 0.69 Bq l – 1 and standard deviation of 0.92 Bq l – 1. The activity concentration ranged from 0.08 ± 0.12 — 0.45 ± 0.27, 0.04 ± 0.08 — 0.62 ± 0.32, 0.33 ± 0.23 — 3.98 ± 0.39 Bq l – 1, with a mean of 0.24 ± 0.19, 0.30 ± 0.21, 1.26 ± 0.34 Bq l – 1 for lakes, hot springs, and rivers respectively. The result was below the UNSCEAR, USEPA and WHO action levels of 11.1 Bq l– 1and100 Bq l – 1respectively. The ²²²Rn contribution from water to indoor air was found to be below the recommended action level . The annual effective dose for inhalation and ingestion ranged from 0.000102 — 0.009954 mSv y – 1 and 0.000102 — 0.010112 mSv y – 1, with mean annual effective dose of 0.001733 and 0.001759 mSv y – 1 respectively. The effective doses for both inhalation and ingestion were below the world average of 0.002 mSv y – 1. The ²²²Rn activity concentration in the study could be termed normal and without threat to human health.
The activity concentrations of natural radionuclides ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th and ⁴⁰K in soil samples collected from Sijua Dhanbad, India were measured by using a gamma-ray spectrometer with a NaI(Tl) detector. The average activity concentration of ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K was found as 60.3, 64.5 and 481.0 Bq. kg−1, respectively. Average radium equivalent activity, absorbed dose rate, outdoor dose, external hazard index and internal hazard index for the area under study is determined as 189.5 Bq. kg−1, 87.2 nGy h−1, 0.4, 0.5 and 0.6 mSv. y−1, respectively. The annual effective dose to the general public is found 0.4 mSv. y−1. This value lies well below the limit of 1 mSv. y−1. Measured values have found safe for the environment and public health of the study area.
This study aims to analyze the data of soil samples from Marsa Alam-Shalateen area. The result of the study is helpful in radiological mapping of the area that has high concentrations as well as to be a baseline data for future studies. Statistical analysis is applied on thirty-three samples for measuring gamma emitting radionuclides (Th-232, Ra-226, and K-40) and calculating radiation hazard indices. This analysis is also helpful to identify the existing relationships between the radiological hazard parameters and radionuclides, and consequently assessing the health exposure implication of the public to the studied soil. In this work conventional statistical analysis (Basic statistics and Frequency histogram), and multivariate statistical analysis (Persons correlation coefficient analysis, Factor analysis and Cluster analysis) are employed. The results show that there is no potential radiological health hazard associated with the soil samples of the study area according to the world acceptable value. In addition, the radioactive elements demonstrate the complexity of minerals in soil samples. In factor analysis, the results show that the first rotated factor accounts for 57.3% of the total variance and is mainly characterized by high positive loading of concentrations of Th-232 and Ra-226. The second rotated factor accounts for 41.4% of the total variance and is mainly corresponds to high positive loading of K-40. Cluster Average linkage method indicated that the concentrations of Th-232 are more related to all radiological parameters levels than Ra-226 and K-40 concentrations. Moreover, Ra-226 concentrations follow Th-232 concentrations in terms of their correlation with the levels of the radiological parameters. While cluster Ward's linkage method analysis reveals that the concentrations of Ra-226 and Th-232 are more linked to all radiological parameters data than K-40 concentrations. Cluster analysis showed that Marsa Alam-Shelateen Road km 33 is classified as the most location that has the highest value of radiation level when compared with other studied locations.
The radioactivity levels in soil samples of Bolu province of north-western Turkey have been determined. There has been no information about radioactivity measurement reported in soil samples in Bolu province so far. For this reason, the activity concentrations of natural and artificial radionuclides (²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, ⁴⁰K, and ¹³⁷Cs) were measured in soil samples collected from 40 different points in Bolu province of north-western Turkey using gamma spectrometry technique with a high-purity germanium detector. The average activity concentrations (range) of ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, ⁴⁰K, and ¹³⁷Cs were found to be 18.2 (3.8–49.9) Bq/kg, 17.3 (4.1–37.9) Bq/kg, 258.3 (64.6–518.9) Bq/kg, and 7.5 (0.6–43.6) Bq/kg, respectively. At the end of the analysis, the radioactivity values were lower than the world average values reported by United Nations Scientific Committee on Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR). In order to evaluate the radiological hazards resulting from natural radioactivity, radium equivalent activity (Raeq), gamma index (Iγ), external hazard index (Hex), absorbed dose rate in air (D), annual gonadal dose rate (AGDE), the annual effective dose rate (AEDE), and excess life time cancer risk (ELCR) were calculated and found in the range of 14.8–129.8 Bq/kg, 0.1–0.5, 0.0–0.4, 7.0–60.2 nGy/h, 49.8–417.5 µSv/y, 8.6–73.8 µSv/y, and 0.3 × 10⁻⁴ to 2.6 × 10⁻⁴, respectively. These results were compared with recommended values (370 Bq/kg for Raeq, <1 for Iγ, <1 for Hex, 55 nGy/h for D, 300 µSv/y for AGDE, 70 µSv/y for AEDE, and 2.9 × 10⁻⁴ for ELCR) by European Commission (EC), UNSCEAR and International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP). As a result, health hazards originated by natural radiation from soil samples of the Bolu province is low and insignificant.
The activity concentrations of 40 K, 226 Ra, and 232 Th in the soil samples collected from Owo Local Government of Ondo state, Nigeria, were assessed by gamma spectrometric techniques using a Na(TI) scintillation detector, encapsulated in a 5 × 5-cm-thick lead shield to reduce environmental background radiation. Results show that the ranges (and the corresponding average) of the measured activity concentrations of 40 K, 226 Ra, and 232 Th are 430.15 ± 4.12 to respectively. The average activity concentrations of the radionuclides were compared with the world average value. Radiological hazard indices of the primordial radionuclides were also calculated and compared with the recommended standard exposure limits. The absorbed dose rates estimated in the study were used to create the absorbed-dose rate map of the study area, showing the geological feature of the same. Generally, the results showed that the soil in the study area might not pose significant hazards to members of the public. However, further investigations into the level of exposure of plants and animals as well as the ingestion of radionuclide are necessary.
Mining, mineral processing and industrial activities have long been linked to increased levels of radioanuclides in soil in their vicinity. In this work, concentrations of naturally occurring radionuclides in soil samples collected around a rock phosphate storage facility in Richards Bay in South Africa were determined. A total of 90 soil samples were collected and analyzed for ²³⁸U and ²³²Th using neutron activation analysis and ²²⁶Ra and ⁴ K using a HPGe detector. The results revealed the average radioactivity concentrations of ²³⁸U, ²³²Th, ²²⁶Ra and ⁴ K in soil samples collected around the rock phosphate storage area were 28.26 ± 11.40, 29.64 ± 11.50, 32.18 ± 11.50 and 146.77 ± 63.30 Bq. kg⁻¹, respectively, which are higher than the corresponding values of 22.26 ± 8.60, 23.09 ± 9.80, 26.52 ± 11.50 and 117.82 ± 10.04 Bq. kg⁻¹ in soil samples from the control area about 2.0 km–4.5 km away from the rock phosphate storage facility. Furthermore, the all radiological hazard parameters (i.e annual effective dose equivalent, annual gonadal dose equivalent, the absorbed dose rate in air, the radium equivalent activity and the external Hazard Index) investigated in this study were below the maximum recommended safety limit. The observed ²³⁸U, ²³²Th, 226Ra and ⁴ K levels indicate contributions from anthropogenic activities with no significant health risks to humans or to the environment. Hence, in terms of terrestrial gamma radiation from soil, rock phosphate storage within this area does not pose any significant radiation hazard to the workers and dwellers.
Narmada River is considered to be the holy river of the state Madhya Pradesh. A study was considered for the development of water quality index using eight parameters pH, Temperature, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), Turbidity, Nitrate-Nitrogen (NO3-N), Phosphate (PO4³⁻), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Dissolved Oxygen (DO) measured at six different sites (S1–S6) along the river Narmada. Three methods (Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index, National Sanitation Foundation Water Quality Index and Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment Water Quality Index) were used for calculation of water quality index. This was observed that the water quality was found to be excellent to good in the season summer and winter and poor to unsuitable for human consumption in the season monsoon along the river Narmada. The fall in the quality of water in monsoon season was due to poor sanitation, turbulent flow, soil erosion and high anthropogenic activities.
This study was conducted primarily to measure and map radon activity concentration in wells within water supply network of
Khartoum State. Ground water samples were collected before and after autumn and analysed using low level γ-spectrometry equipped
with HPGe-detector. Radon activity concentration was found in the range of 1.58–345.10Bq/L with an average value of 59.20±6.60Bq/L.
Upon comparing the radon concentration values obtained with EPA it was found they were far below the maximum contaminant level
of EPA with the exception five samples. Physicochemical water parameters were measured and no correlation was noted between
radon concentration and these parameters. The overall annual effective dose for adults due to radon ingestion is less than
WHO recommended reference dose level for most except 14 samples.
KeywordsRadon–Groundwater–Effective dose–GIS
The authors conducted a study of an aboriginal community to determine if kidney func-tion had been affected by the chronic ingestion of uranium in drinking water from the community's drilled wells. Uranium concentrations in drinking water varied from < 1 to 845 ppb. This nonin-vasive study relied on the measurement of a combination of urinary indicators of kidney function and markers for cell toxicity. In all, 54 individuals (12-73 years old) participated in the study. Correlation of uranium excreted in urine with bio-indicators at p <or=.05 indicated interference with the kidney's reabsorptive function. Because of the community's concerns regarding cancer incidence, the authors also calculated cumulative radiation doses using uranium intake in drinking water over the preceding 15-year period. The highest total uranium intake over this period was 1,761 mg. The risk of cancer from the highest dose, 2.1 mSv, is 13 in 100,000, which would be difficult to detect in the community studied (population size = 1,480). This study indicates that at the observed levels of uranium intake, chemical toxicity would be a greater health concern than would radiation dose.
Guangdong province has been renown for its high natural background radiation in the world. In this study, the activity concentrations of naturally occurring radionuclides (NORs) ²³⁸U, ²³²Th, ²²⁶Ra, and ⁴⁰K were measured using a High Purity Germanium (HPGe) detector-based gamma spectrometry system on 490 surface soil samples collected from across this province. The concentration of radionuclides ranged from 12.0 to 264.3 Bq/kg for ²³⁸U with an average of 79.3 Bq/kg, from 10.3 to 376.0 Bq/kg for ²³²Th with an average of 101.0 Bq/kg, from 7.6 to 298.3 Bq/kg for ²²⁶Ra with an average of 75.1 Bq/kg, and from 8.2 to 1747.1 Bq/kg for ⁴⁰K with an average of 535.8 Bq/kg, respectively. The mean values of radium equivalent activity (Raeq) and external hazard index (Hex) for the soil samples in the study area were calculated to be 260.8 (28.3–850.3) Bq/kg and 0.70 (0.08–2.30), respectively. The gamma absorbed dose rates (D) in air range from 13.6 to 381.5 nGy/h, with an arithmetic average of 120.0 nGy/h, while the annual effective dose rates (AEDR) were determined to range from 16.7 to 467.8 μSv/y, with an arithmetic average of 147.2 μSv/y. The spatial distribution of calculated Raeq, Hex, D in air and AEDR according to the distribution patterns of NORs was contrasted by the mean of the international values and previous studies on the area. This study provides the essential information on the levels of background radiation in Guangdong.
Although primarily deemed to be an ornamental stone, granite may also be ground into fines for use in cement mortars, where it exhibits high strength and durability. Both the ⁴⁰K present in the stone and the natural decay series of its uranium, thorium and actinium components exhibit high activity concentrations. An understanding is therefore needed of the correlation among the different particle sizes in granite aggregate to assess their contribution to a mortar's activity concentration index (ACI). This study analyses the variation in ACI with particle size in three types of granite based on the chemical, mineralogical and radiological characterisation of five size fractions. The activity concentrations of the thorium and uranium natural decay series were highest in the finest fractions. A correlation was observed between thorium and the MgO and Fe2O3 normally present in mica group phyllosilicates. In two of the three granites, the mortars prepared with the smallest size particles had ACI values >1.
In this study, the activity concentrations of radon gas C(222Rn) in the water of Jale and Mersaid springs were measured by using an HPGe spectrometer. The average C(222Rn) in the main Mersaid spring (T≈ 33 °C) and Jale warm outlet (T≈ 36 °C) was 24.10 ± 0.50 and 30.11 ± 0.67 Bq L−1, respectively. In the left cold outlet (T≈ 25 °C) and right cold outlet (T≈ 24 °C) of Jale spring, the average C(222Rn) was about 21.04 ± 0.52 and 19.04 ± 0.55 Bq L−1, respectively. The C(222Rn)/C(226Ra) ratio was 100. Results showed that a substantial amount of 222Rn might have been lost as water flowed to the surface.
This study portrays the relationship between Radon activity concentration and physicochemical parameters in groundwater in Erbil city, Iraq. Primary data of groundwater samples were collected from five different zones in Erbil, during February 2019. Water samples were collected for both Radon measurement and physicochemical analysis. Water samples were taken from 24 different wells as a reference, then directly measured their radioactivity at the laboratory of Erbil Environment Office. Dissolved Radon 222 R n in a sampled groundwater has been measured using an electronic Radon detector RAD 7. Determination of various parameters such as p H , total dissolved solids, total hardness, Sulfate, and Magnesium in groundwater has also been measured. Moreover, regression analysis illustrated that there is no significant relationship observed between p H , T D S , and hardness, Sulfate, and Magnesium with Radon activity concentration because these are no significant at the 95% confidence level. Otherwise, the correlation of determinate ( R 2 ) values show the relationship between Sulfate and Magnesium with Radon concentration because these are significant at the 95% confidence level. All measurements were done in almost identical environmental conditions to avoid the minor differences in meteorological parameters.
The present study had an objective to approximate radon and uranium as naturally occurring radioactive constituents in spring-water samples and assessment of AED (annual effective dose), radiological risks; and chemical toxicity, when spring-water is the source of drinking water. Based on the population density in study area (Bageshwar district of Uttarakhand, India), random sampling process was adopted for the collection of water samples from eighty natural springs. The concentration of radon was estimated using Advanced SMART RnDuo while for estimation of uranium, LED fluorimeter was used. The observed values were subjected to statistical analysis to illustrate the spatial distribution of radon and uranium in the study area as well as for determination of associated health risks for inhabitants. The results revealed that radon activity in spring-water samples varies from 3.4 to 101.3 Bq/L with a mean value of 34.4 ± 3.8 Bq/L while the uranium concentration in water samples ranges from 0.1 to 28.4 μg/L with the mean value of 1.6 μg/L. In 35% samples radon concentration has been found more than the permissible limit prescribed by UNSCEAR. The observed values of electrical conductivity (EC) and total dissolve solids (TDS) were also found within the recommended limits of WHO. Therefore the relatively higher observed concentration of radon in spring water than the permissible limits of health regulatory agencies may be a matter of concern in radiological prospective as well as for chemical toxicity in infants and children inhibiting the study area.
In this study, radon concentration measurements and chemical analyses of groundwater samples were performed in four sampling locations of Bartın Province of Western Black Sea Region, Turkey. ²²² Rn analysis was carried out in groundwater samples with liquid scintillation counting system in accordance with ASTM D5072 standard. The pH, total hardness, alkalinity and dissolved oxygen parameters of the groundwater samples were also determined. The radon concentrations for the water samples ranged between <3.00 Bq/L–12.03 Bq/L. Thirty eight percentage of the samples slightly exceeded the permissible limit of 11.1 Bq/L specified by USEPA for drinking waters. The annual effective doses of groundwater samples were calculated in the range of 7.41–30.74 μSv/y for ingestion of water ( E w.Ig ), and in the range of 7.31–30.31 μSv/y for inhalation of radon released from water ( E w.Ih ). The total calculated annual effective doses due to ingestion and inhalation were found to be below the limit value of 100 μSv/y specified by the World Health Organization (WHO). The radioactivity measurement results significantly varied for three sampling points but not for one sampling point on two different measurement dates, which is attributed to the differences in geological structure. The chemical analysis results, except for total hardness in two sampling points, were within the permissible limits specified by international standards.
Exceptionally high concentrations of radon have been found in drinking water originating from hand pumps in Khetri Copper Belt of Rajasthan. Radon concentration was determined using Durridge RAD7 professional electronic radon detector. The measured radon concentration ranged from 12.5 ± 1.5 to 862 ± 38 Bq l-1. About 35% of the drinking water samples showed radon concentrations above the European Union's parametric value of 100 Bq l-1. The high radon concentration obtained in groundwater is due to local natural geology. The total annual effective doses due to ingestion and inhalation of radon in drinking water varied from 0.10 to 6.7 mSv y-1 for infants, 0.06-3.8 mSv y-1 for children and 0.06-4.4 mSv y-1 for adults.
Radon in the household water (especially groundwater) which is an important source of indoor radon, has become a potential health hazard to residents. In this study, radon concentrations in groundwater sampled from five villages near Dongpo W-polymetallic metallogenic region were measured using RAD-7 detector with RAD H2O accessory, and the effect of regional geology and mineralization on radon concentration in groundwater was studied. In addition, we also estimated the radiation doses received by people via ingestion of radon in water and inhalation of the radon from the indoor air while using water. The results show that the radon concentration in groundwater samples varies from 1.29 Bq L-1 to 31.31 Bq L-1 with 10.47 Bq L-1 on average, and about 31.3% of the groundwater samples analyzed have a higher radon concentration than the maximum contaminant level of 11.1 Bq L-1 recommended by United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA). The relatively high radon level in groundwater can be attributed to a relatively high uranium background produced by the magmatic activity and magmatic-hydrothermal system. The values of annual effective dose (AEDing) due to ingestion of radon in groundwater range from 0.002 mSv y-1 to 0.055 mSv y-1, 0.005 mSv y-1 to 0.11 mSv y-1 and 0.008 mSv y-1 to 0.188 mSv y-1 for adult, child and infant respectively. The values of annual effective dose due to the inhalation of radon released from water are 63.6, 15.4 and 3.8 times of those through the ingestion of radon in groundwater by the adults, children and infants, respectively. In addition, the values of estimated total annual effective doses are 0.020-0.480 mSv y-1, 0.017-0.406 mSv y-1 and 0.020-0.484 mSv y-1 for adult, child and infant, respectively. These values are much lower than the reference dose level of 1 mSv y-1 recommended by World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effect of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR).
In the past, some efforts have been made for measuring natural radioactivity and evaluating public exposure to natural radiation in certain areas of Iran especially in well-known High Level Natural Radiation Areas (HLNRA) in Ramsar and Mahallat. However, the information on radionuclide concentrations, and, consequently, terrestrial radiation exposure for many other areas are not available. There was therefore a need for a systematic and nation-wide survey. For this purpose, 979 soil samples from 31 provinces were collected. The activity concentrations of (40)K, (226)Ra and (232)Th were measured by HPGe detector. The average activity concentrations for Iran were found to be 457.7 Bq/kg for (40)K, 24.3 Bq/kg for (226)Ra and 25.8 Bq/kg for (232)Th. Results were compared with previous regional or provincial surveys. The population-weighted average outdoor and indoor annual effective dose due to external exposure to terrestrial sources of radiation are 0.06 mSv and 0.33 mSv, respectively. It was shown that there is a significant correlation between the activity concentrations of (232)Th and (40)K in soil. In addition, the results of chi square tests show normal and lognormal distributions cannot be considered for the frequency distributions of activity concentration of (232)Th and (226) Ra while (40)K has a normal distribution.
Gano thermal spring is a karst spring located in the Zagros zone in southern Iran. Samples were collected in different seasons from this spring water. In addition to physicochemical factors, major and minor ions and dissolved radon concentration were measured at the sampling site using a RAD7 detector. The annual average temperature and electrical conductivity (EC) of Gano water spring is 41.2ºC and 17,417.5 μs/cm. The pH is in the neutral range and average TDS is 10,442.5 mg/l. The water type is Na-Cl. High Concentrations of Na, Cl, and SO4 ions probably result from the Hormoz Series salt domes and the dissolution of halite, gypsum, and anhydrite. The Ca/Mg ratio in spring water indicates that the reservoir rocks are dolomitic limestone. Concentrations of elements such as Ag, Hg, Cd, Sn, Pb, Cr, Co, and Bi in Gano water varies from less than 0.5 to 1 μg/l. The mean concentration of ²²²Rn in Gano water is 29.2 kBq/m³, so Gano is not a radon mineral spring. Mean annual effective²²²Rn doses for inhalation from the waters of Gano spring was computed to be 0.002 μSvy⁻¹, which is less than the reference level recommended by WHO.
Uranium, thorium and potassium are the main elements contributing to natural terrestrial radioactivity. The isotopes 238U, 235U, 232Th and 40K decay with half-lives so long that significant amounts remain in the earth, providing a continuing source of heat. The slow decay of these isotopes also provides the basis for radiometric age dating and isotopic modelling of the evolution of the earth and its crust. There is a complex interplay between their heat production and the processes involved in crust formation. Phenomena such as volcanism, earthquakes, and large-scale hydrothermal activity associated with ore deposition reflect the dissipation of heat energy from the earth, much of which is derived from natural radioactivity. The higher levels of radioactive elements during the early history of the earth resulted in higher heat how. All three of the radioactive elements are strongly partitioned into the continental crust, but within the crust their distribution is determined by their different chemical properties. The behaviour of U, which has two commonly occurring oxidation stares, is more complex than that of Th and K. Uranium deposits are diverse, and are mostly associated with granites, acid volcanics, or detrital sedimentary rocks. The most important U deposits economically are unconformity-type ores of Proterozoic age, in which U is enriched by up to 5 x 106 with respect to bulk earth values. In some cases natural radioactivity can be of environmental concern. The most significant risk is posed by accumulations of radon, the gaseous daughter product of U.
An ethnobotanical survey was carried out in the Hawraman region, southern Kurdistan, Iraq. A total of 64 plant species belonging to 30 families are currently utilized in various traditional uses, including local foods, medicines, tools, gums, fodder, tanning, and dyes, among others. Data were gathered from local markets, where various plant parts were sold, as well as from interviewing elderly villagers. For each ethnobotanical entry, the species, plant family, and Kurdish names are given.
The occurrence in the literature of numerous, inconsistent and limited definitions of a detection limit has led to a re-examination of the questions of signal detection and signal extraction in analytical chemistry and nuclear chemistry. Three limiting levels have been defined: LC-the net signal level (instrument response) above which an observed signal may be reliably recognized as "detected"; LD-the "true" net signal level which may be a priori expected to lead to detection; and LQ-the level at which the measurement precision will be satisfactory for quantitative determination. Exact defining equations as well as series of working formulae are presented both for the general analytical case and for radioactivity. The latter, assumed to be governed by the Poisson distribution, is treated in such a manner that accurate limits may be derived for both short- and long-lived radionuclides either in the presence or absence of interference. The principles are illustrated by simple examples of spectrophotometry and radioactivity, and by a more complicated example of activation analysis in which a choice must be made between alternative nuclear reactions.
By combining information about the occurrence, transport, exposure, and health effects of radon in drinking water, it has been estimated that over a period of 70 years (the average lifetime in the United States), between 2000 and 40 000 lung cancer fatalities are caused by inhalation of natural radon released from US public water supplies. The average concentration of radon in these water supplies generates a lifetime risk of about 1 in 10 000, the highest level of risk allowed for any contaminant currently regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Reducing the levels of radon in drinking water, which would significantly lessen the risks to health, has been found to be feasible by either aeration or treatment with granular activated carbon. Combinando información sobre el acontecimiento, transporte, exposición, y efectos sobre la salud de radón en agua potable, se ha estimado que en un período de 70 años (la vida promedia en los Estados Unidos), de 2000 a 40 000 muertes por cáncer pulmonar son causadas por aspiración de radón natural liberado de provisiones de agua pública en los Estados Unidos. La concentratión promedia de radón en estas provisiones de agua genera un riesgo de vida casi de 1 en 10 000, el nivel más alto de riesgo permitido por cualquier contaminante corrientemente regulado bajo el Acta de Agua Potable sin Riesgo. Se ha encontrado que es posible reducir los niveles de radón en el agua potable por aeratión tratamiento con carbono granulado activado, lo que disminuiría significativamente los riesgos a la salud.
This paper discusses the terminology appropriate to radiation exposure and dose, the three sources of natural background radiation (cosmic radiation, cosmogenic radiation, and terrestrial radiation), and several radioactive isotopes that are significant contributors to the radiation exposure received by individuals. A number of consumer products, many of which can be demonstrated to be radioactive using a radiation survey meter, are also discussed. Keywords (Audience): High School / Introductory Chemistry
The natural radioactivity due to the presence of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in conventional raw materials and some solid industrial wastes and by-products which are being used or have a potential for use in the building and ceramic industries in Australia has been measured by gamma-ray spectrometry. The majority of materials examined in this work showed fairly low levels of radioactivity. Some samples of red mud, phosphogypsum, zircon products and fly ash did show higher levels of radioactivity than would be acceptable on the basis of a criterion formula for gamma-ray activity suggested for use in some OECD countries. But this higher level of radioactivity should not pose an environmental health problem when these materials constitute a relatively small portion of the materials used in a normal building. The present work has also shown that the radioactivity levels of some of the materials can be reduced through the removal of fines by sieving, as the fines seem to contain a higher concentration of radioactive nuclides.
RAD7 RAD H2O-Radon in Water Accessory Owner's Manual
- D C Inc
Inc, D.C., 2009. RAD7 RAD H2O-Radon in Water Accessory Owner's Manual.
- S Z Jassim
- J C Goff
Jassim, S.Z., Goff, J.C., 2006. Geology of Iraq: Dolin, vol. 5. Prague Morav. Museum,
Brno, Czech Repub.
Manual of Mineralogy
- C Klein
- C S Hurlbut
Klein, C., Hurlbut Jr., C.S., 1993. Manual of Mineralogy. John Wiley & Sons. Inc., New
York.
Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality. World Health Organization
- W H Organization
- Who
- W H O Staff
Organization, W.H., WHO., Staff, W.H.O., 2004. Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality.
World Health Organization.