Analysis of naturally occurring radioactive materials in environmental samples using gamma spectrometry

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Nuclear Engineering Department, Military Technical College, Cairo Egypt.

2 Nuclear and Radiological Regularity Authority.

Abstract

Abstract:
Natural radioactivity exists everywhere around us in soil, air, water, and atmosphere and even in our bodies. Radiological background levels especially for vital locations are of great importance to our country nuclear program. EL-Dabaa site, at which the first Egyptian nuclear power plant will be constructed, is strategic area to be monitored before the beginning of the plant experimental and commercial operation.
The aim of this study is to evaluate the radioactivity levels and its radiological hazard indices especially in the zones around the NPPs; exclusion zone, low population zone and high population area (El-Dabaa old and new town). Many soil and shore sediment samples were collected from these areas. They were prepared and then analyzed using HpGe spectrometer. The calculations of activity concentration (Ac) of natural radionuclides 238U, 232Th decay series and 40K were carried out. Based on the results obtained, the hazard indices (air absorbed gamma dose rate D , annual effective dose E , excess life time cancer risk ELCR) indoor and outdoor also ( Ra equivalent Raeq and internal and external hazard index Hin,Hex) also ( gamma index I and alpha index I ) were estimated. The man-made radionuclide 137Cs was also measured. The results are tabulated, plotted, discussed and compared with the national and international levels and limits.

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