Radium Content Research Articles

Radium levels in Brazil nuts: A review of the literature.

Brazil nuts are well known for their extraordinarily high selenium content. For this reason, they are frequently recommended as a kind of natural selenium 'supplement', particularly for certain population groups such as vegetarians and vegans in regions with low soil selenium levels. Typically, an intake of one or two Brazil nuts per day is recommended. Brazil nuts, however, also stand out from other nuts in terms of their high (albeit highly variable) radium content. The radium isotopes Ra-226 and Ra-228 emit alpha- and beta-radiation, with this type of radiation being particularly harmful when ingested. Consequently, it is important to consider radium levels in Brazil nuts before formulating recommendations for a long-term, daily intake of these nuts. To date, however, no comprehensive overview of radium levels in Brazil nuts has been published. Therefore, a literature review without time or language restrictions was conducted, including unpublished original data from Germany. The literature review (including the German data) indicated mean Ra-226 and Ra-228 levels of 49 (range: 17-205) mBq/g and 67 (range: 12-235) mBq/g, respectively. Assuming a consistent daily intake of one or two Brazil nuts, this would result in an effective dose of ~88-220 μSv/year. This level of exposure appears to be neither clearly harmful nor clearly harmless. As increased radioactivity exposure (at least at higher doses) is associated with increased cancer risk, randomised controlled trials assessing the effect of Brazil nuts on cancer risk biomarkers are needed.

Assessment of soil gas radon migration and transport through the estimation of radon diffusion length and diffusion coefficient in the soil matrix

Naturally occurring radioactive gas, radon is a decay product of radium present in the soil. Radon flux reaches the atmosphere through exhalation from soil surface. This study aims to estimate the radon diffusion length and diffusion coefficient in soil matrix on the premises of HNB Garhwal University campus at Tehri Garhwal, India. Soil gas radon concentration was measured at different depths (15, 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 cm) using a Smart RnDuo (Scintillation-detector) at 14 different locations in the university campus. Simultaneous measurement of surface and mass exhalation rates was also carried out for each location. Gamma-ray spectrometry was used to estimate the radium content in soil samples. Results of the present study suggest that soil gas radon concentration increases with increasing sampling depth. The diffusion coefficient and length were calculated using the soil gas radon concentration gradient within the soil matrix. The average value of diffusion length (l) and diffusion coefficient (D) were obtained as, ls = 0.70 ± 0.22 m, Ds = 0.0054 ± 0.0049 m2 sec-1 and la = 0.77 ± 0.63 m, Da = 0.0073 ± 0.014 m2 sec-1 by Fick’s diffusion model and analytic models, respectively.

Produced water geochemistry from hydraulically stimulated Niobrara Formation petroleum wells: Origin of salinity and temporal perspectives on treatment and reuse

Produced water (i.e., a mixture of returned injection fluids and geologic formation brines) represents the largest volumetric waste stream associated with petroleum production in the United States. As such, produced water has been the focus of intense study with emphasis on understanding the geologic origin of the fluids, environmental impacts of unintended or intentional release, disposal concerns, and their commodity (e.g., lithium) potential. However, produced water geochemistry from many active petroleum plays remain poorly understood leading to knowledge gaps associated with the origin of brine salinity and parameters (e.g., radium levels) that can impact treatment, disposal, and possible reuse. Here we evaluate the major ion geochemistry, radium concentrations, and stable water isotope composition of ~120 produced water samples collected from 17 producing unconventional petroleum wells in Weld County, Colorado from the Late Cretaceous Niobrara Formation. This sample set encompasses eight produced water time series from four new wells across production days 0 to ~365 and from four established wells across production days ~1000 to ~1700. Additionally, produced water from nine other established Niobrara Formation wells were sampled at discrete time points ranging from day 458 to day 2256, as well as hydraulic fracturing input fluids. These results expand the available Niobrara Formation produced water geochemical data, previously limited to a few wells sampled within the first year of production, allowing for the heterogeneity of major ions and radium to be evaluated. Specific highlights include: (i) observations that boron and bromide concentrations are higher in produced waters from new wells compared to older, established wells, suggesting the role of input fluids contributing to fluid geochemistry; and (ii) barium and radium concentrations vary between the producing benches of the Niobrara Formation with implications for treating radiological hazards in produced waters from this formation. Furthermore, we explore the geochemical relationships between major ion ratios and stable water isotope composition to understand the origin of salinity in Niobrara Formation brines from the Denver-Julesburg Basin. These findings are discussed with perspective toward potential treatment and reuse of Niobrara produced water prior to disposal.

Uranium and Radium in Groundwater and Incidence of Colorectal Cancer in Georgia Counties, USA: An Ecologic Study.

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly occurring cancer in the United States, with higher incidence rates among Black populations. Groundwater concentrations of natural radionuclides uranium and radium have seldom been investigated in relation to CRC despite their known carcinogenicity. We investigate spatial patterns of CRC by race, and in relation to groundwater concentrations of uranium and radium, testing the hypothesis that uranium and radium in groundwater might differentially contribute to incident CRC in Black and White populations in counties of Georgia, USA. Black populations showed a higher incidence of CRC than White populations; the median incident rate difference was 9.23 cases per 100,000 (95% CI: 2.14, 19.40). Spatial cluster analysis showed high incidence clusters of CRC in similar regions for Black and White populations. Linear regression indicated there are, on average, 1-2 additional cases of colorectal cancer in counties with higher levels of radium in their groundwater, irrespective of race. Uranium was not associated with CRC. This ecologic study suggests that radium in groundwater may be linked with increased incidence of CRC, although it did not explain higher CRC incidence rates in Black populations. Further studies are needed to verify this association given the inherent limitations in the ecologic study design and the crude exposure assessment.

Calculation of radiological risks for selected soil samples from the north of Kufa district in Najaf, Iraq.

To evaluate radioactivity levels in soil samples and their physical impact on the population. The experimental radiation study was conducted in northern Kufa, Al Najaf Governorate, Iraq, in March 2020 by researchers from the Kufa University, Iraq and comprised soil samples. A gamma spectrometer equipped with a sodium iodide detector activated with a trace amount of thallium was used to calculate the concentration of radium, thorium and potassium. Data was analysed using SPSS 20. There were 30 samples. The average concentration of Radium, Thorium and Potassium was (0.824± 0.392)ppm, (1.536± 0.645)ppm and( 0.597± 0.195)%, respectively, and the radiation hazards were lower than the permissible levels. The reported value of excess lifetime cancer risk was (1.2819 ±0.156)×10-3, and the annual gonadal equivalent dose (AGED) was 116.496± 41.255 (mSv. y-1), which was lower than the recommended limit. There was a positive, strong and significant relationship of radium with all the variables (p<0.05) studied except with potassium (p>0.05). Thorium was positively and significantly associated with all the variables (p<0.05). The study area was found to be safe and there was no relationship between the radiation levels of the studied nuclides and the risk of cancer.

Distribution of radionuclides in the soils and assessment of radiation hazards in AL Najaf, Iraq: A cross sectional analysis.

To evaluate radioactivity levels in soil samples and their physical impact on the population. The experimental radiation study was conducted by researchers belonging to the Kufa University in Al- Najaf, Iraq, in August 2020, and comprised soil samples from Al-Rahma area. Sodium iodide detector activated with a trace amount of Thallium with crystal dimensions 3" x 3" was used to calculate the concentration of Radium, Thorium and Potassium. Among the 15 samples collected, the average ± standard deviation (SD) concentration for Radium, Thorium and Potassium was 0.1776±0.12, 0.726±0.435 and 1.9128±1.105%, respectively. The reported value of excess lifetime cancer risk was 1.2819×10-3. The area studied was found to be a safe area and did not pose a health threat to the locals.

Characteristic parameters and radon exhalation rates of aerated concrete blocks

ObjectiveTo understand the characteristic parameters and radon exhalation rates of aerated concrete blocks. MethodsA total of 39 nationally inspected samples were measured. Their dry density was determined based on their mass and volumes, their porosities were measured on the principle of volumetric expansion, and their radium content was determined using a high-purity germanium (HPGe) detector for gamma-ray spectroscopy. Furthermore, their diffusion lengths were quantified by establishing a combined cumulative and diffusion chamber, and their radon exhalation rates were measured through closed-box testing using a continuous radon monitor. ResultsThe aerated concrete blocks exhibited dry densities ranging from 464 to 840 ​kg/m3 [average: (654.0 ​± ​82.5) kg/m3], open porosities from 67.1 ​% to 81.1 % [average: (74.3 ​± ​3.3) %, radium (226Ra) content from 12.3 to 136 Bq/kg [average: (63.0 ​± ​30.4) Bq/kg], diffusion lengths from 0.49 to 1.01 ​m [average: (0.70 ​± ​0.15) m], and radon exhalation rates from 0.6 to 22.8 Bq·m−2·h−1 [average: (7.3 ​± ​5.3) Bq·m−2·h−1]. ConclusionAerated concrete blocks exhibit significantly higher porosities, diffusion lengths, and radon exhalation rates than traditional concrete and clay bricks. These blocks might contribute to the high indoor radon concentration observed in modern buildings in China.

Radon exhalation and emanation assessments in the Transdanubian Central Mountain in Hungary

ObjectiveTo determine the radium-226 activity concentration, the massic radon exhalation rate and emanation factor of 55 soil samples from the Central Transdanubian Mountains in Hungary as well as possible radon exhalation hotspots in the sampling area were determined. Further indoor measurements are planned to investigate the possible exposure to radon of the inhabitants. MethodsThe radium-226 activity concentration measurements were carried out with a semiconductor HPGe gamma-ray spectrometer. The massic radon exhalation rate and emanation factor were determined by measuring the radon activity concentrations using the accumulation method with a system developed by our department based on an AlphaGUARD DF2000 portable radon monitor. ResultsThe activity concentrations of radium-226 were between (11.4 ​± ​2.5) and (118.2 ​± ​3.0) Bq/kg, while their average was 39.51 Bq/kg. The massic radon exhalation rates were between (1.02 ​± ​3.64) mBq⋅kg−1⋅h−1 and (275.63 ​± ​4.05) mBq⋅kg−1⋅h−1, while their average was 39.51 mBq⋅kg−1⋅h−1. Finally, the emanation factors were between (0.01 ​± ​0.04) and (0.80 ​± ​0.03) with an average of 0.30. ConclusionsIn our study, the results recorded from the bedrock at the sampling sites were analyzed. 9 samples were taken from sites comprised of limestone bedrock, moreover, the average radium-226 activity concentrations and massic radon exhalation rates at these sampling sites were higher than average. It was also concluded that although no regional correlation can be seen from the results, a possible smaller radon hotspot was identified from our measurements where further sampling will be carried out.

Determine the concentration of radon and uranium in different types of tea

ABSTRACT Radon is a radioactive element from 238U decay series which is naturally occurring and found in different concentrations in many biological formations. This radioactive gas rises from the sample and enters the homes and human lungs daily. The present study aims to determine the concentration of radon in 25 different types of tea collected from local markets in Kurdistan Iraqi region which are mostly consumed by the population because tea is one of the most food used in the form of cold and hot drinks in Iraq, so 25 samples of the most frequently traded tea have been collected from the market. Analysis of the concentrations of Radon-222 and Radium-226 for different types of household tea samples are very substantial for realising the comparative contributes of specific substances to the whole radon content set within the human body and his environment, which is the recommended limit for ICRP values (200–800) Bq.m−3. CR-39 detector was used to record the tracks of alpha particles released from radon content within the tea samples with PVC tube. The chemical etching NaOH solution 6.25 N was using at 70°C for 8 hours to enlarge and appear the alpha tracks, then scanned by microscope. The results showed that the lowest concentration of radon was 3.468 Bq.m−3 (TE11, 0.01%) found in Aero plane tea, while the highest value was recorded in Royal tea which was 123.467 Bq.m-3 (TE22, 8%) with an average value of radon concentration was 61.754 Bq.m−3. The obtained radon concentration levels in the samples were lower than the global permissibility limiting of exposure to radon were within the allowed limit value (200 Bq.m−3), also found to be lower than the (400 Bq.m−3) according to ICRP in foods; therefore, this will not form any risk on human being life.

Radon and water geochemistry at the active Campi Flegrei volcano (Italy): The role of pore-water phenomena

This study provides new 222Rn measurements performed by RAD7 on 31 thermal waters from the Campi Flegrei caldera, the active volcanic-geothermal field close to Naples (Southern Italy). Waters sampled between 2021 and 2023 are characterized for physical parameters, major ions geochemistry and radium content. Rn contents from Somma-Vesuvius, Ischia and Vulcano volcanoes, together with the river plain north to the Campi Flegrei, were obtained for comparison. The Campi Flegrei caldera reaches the highest Rn concentrations respect to the other sites, varying from 0.03 ± 0.02 to ca. 1887 ± 13 Bq/L, although mostly are below 60 Bq/L. We detect a steady-state condition of constant temperature, facies and radon activity that characterizes most sites, with only minor impacts from seasonalilty and Weigel's effects. Just a small fraction of 222Rn derives from its 226Ra parent in solution, while radon activity in local waters is mainly due to emanation from the radium-containing rock reservoir. Our dataset proofs that radon couples with temperature, sulfate and CO2 in relations to rock-leaching and pore-water phenomena that proceed in the reservoir as it warms up and degasses. Rn and CO2 are decoupled in deeply and timely equilibrated geothermal fluids.Two main end-members, i.e., a low radioactive cold diluted and the Rn-richest hypersaline water from the deep geothermal reservoir are recognized; seawater contamination and heating over 70 °C play a major role in radon decrease.Related radium contents, physical parameters and major ions geochemistry are also presented for a comparison with published data.

Radioactive elements in wastewater and potable water: Sources, effects, and methods of analysis and removal.

Radioactive effluents, originating from nuclear power plants, medical-nuclear applications, and various extraction industries worldwide, present a significant and dangerous contamination challenge. The concentrations of radioactive substances in wastewater, surface water, and potable water vary widely depending on the source and location. For example, cesium-137 levels in wastewater from nuclear facilities can range from 0.1 to 10 Bq/L, while tritium concentrations in surface water near nuclear plants can reach up to 100 Bq/L. Regulatory guidelines, like the maximum contaminant level of 0.185 Bq/L for combined radium-226 and radium-228 in drinking water, are critical for ensuring safety and environmental protection. Specifically, in Fukushima, Japan, cesium-137 levels in surface water range from 0.1 to 10 Bq/L due to the nuclear accident. In contrast, regions with natural uranium deposits, like parts of the United States, have reported radium-226 concentrations in potable water up to 1 Bq/L. These variations highlight the necessity for focused monitoring and evaluation to protect water quality and community health. Among various methods, Gamma spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry are precise for radionuclide quantification, scintillation detectors, and ion exchange, and adsorption techniques efficiently remove radioactive substances from water. This critical review examines the sources, adverse effects, and analysis and remediation strategies for various radioactive elements in wastewater. By thoroughly evaluating the origins and potential dangers associated with radioactive effluents, this report emphasizes the urgent need for rigorous monitoring and effective treatment practices to maintain the integrity of water resources and ecosystems. PRACTITIONER POINTS: Comprehensive analysis of the radioactive elements frequently found in wastewater and drinking water. Assess the negative effects of radioactive elements in water systems. Examine the treatment methods used to eliminate radioactive pollutants from water sources. Outline effective methods and tactics for addressing and controlling radioactive contamination occurrences. Analyze the latest advancements in technology, regulatory enhancements, and optimal methods to guarantee the safety of drinking water and the sustainable handling of radioactive substances in wastewater.

Measurements of radon exhalations and radiological doses using LR-115 (II) nuclear track detectors in Tiru region of the Naga Schuppen Belt, India.

In this present study, the nuclear track detector LR-115 (II) was employed to assess radon (222Rn) exhalation rate, effective radium (226Ra) content, and the annual effective dose from coal and soil samples collected in and around the coal mining area of Tiru region of Nagaland, India. The 222Rn mass and surface exhalation rates and 226Ra contents were found to be in the ranges of 7.3-17.3 mBq kg-1 h-1, 242.9-573.6 mBq m-2h-1 and 1.0-2.3Bqkg-1, respectively, for coal and 15.8-22.0 mBq kg-1 h-1, 523.8-730.4 mBq m-2h-1 and 2.1-2.9Bqkg-1, respectively, for soil. The 222Rn exhalation rates and 226Ra contents in soils were found to be higher than in coal. The estimated annual effective doses for coal and soils were found to be in the ranges of 17.6-41.6 and 38.0-53.0μSv y-1, respectively. This study is an important contribution to the understanding of radiation exposure in the coal mining area of the thrust-bound sedimentary sequence of the Naga Schuppen Belt, and it would have potential impact on further human health studies. However, the measured values for all the samples were found to be within the globally recognised permissible range.

Radon Dynamics in Granite and Calcareous Soils: Long-Term Experiments in a Semi-Arid Context

Radon in soil poses a significant health risk when it accumulates inside dwellings. The estimation of radon potential is a difficult task due to the complex dynamics of radon within soil and its relations with the weather. This research focuses on the variability of radon activity, driven by environmental changes, assessed in two loam soils (loamy sand–granite soil and silty clay loam-calcareous soil) with different radium contents. We conducted an experiment with teow soil columns in a semi-controlled outdoor laboratory, in a warm semi-arid climate. We also examined the consequences of abundant rainfall on radon activity through artificial soil water content (SWC) experiment conditions. Statistical analyses reveal that SWC is the most significant parameter influencing radon activity in these experiments. Radon is proportional to SWC and inversely proportional to temperature, evapotranspiration, and pressure in both soils, while wind is negatively related only in the loamy sand soil. Based on our findings, we modelled radon potential considering different soils and climatic contexts. SWC influences radon potential by changing radon emanation, activity, and permeability, depending on the local soil texture and radium concentration.

Assessment and Mitigation of Groundwater Contamination from Phosphate Mining in Tunisia: Geochemical and Radiological Analysis

Groundwater contamination in the Mediterranean Basin is a severe problem that has a significant impact on environmental ecosystems and human health. The unconventional uranium and the potentially toxic elements (PTEs) of phosphate rocks are the principal contaminants in the phosphate mining industry in Tunisia. Phosphogypsum (PG) results from the valorization of phosphate to fertilizers and phosphoric acid. PG stocks can be used in cement production, brick manufacturing, and soil amendments in desertic land, and can be resolved by using nanomaterial adsorbents. In the flat area of the study area, the increase in radioactivity (40K) is due to abusive fertilizer use. Geochemical and radiological analyses in the northern part of Tunisia and its karst shallow aquifer indicate significant contamination levels. The northern part exhibits moderate contamination, whereas the karst shallow aquifer shows higher contamination levels, particularly with elevated nitrate concentrations. In the phosphate basin, both washing phosphate and phosphogypsum reveal high levels of radioactive elements, with the latter showing especially high concentrations of radium. The shallow aquifer in this region has moderate contamination levels, while the deep geothermal aquifer also shows noticeable contamination but to a lesser degree compared to the shallow aquifer. The shallow groundwater is characterized by a higher value of radioactivity than the groundwater due to the contamination impact from the phosphate industry and the cumulative radioactivity disintegration. Finally, the nanoparticles and the electrostatic adsorption can decrease the PTEs and radionuclides from the contaminated water in the study area. Moreover, other key issues for advancing research on groundwater contamination are proposed in this study. It is time to valorize this PG and the other mines of (Fe, Pb, and Zn) in the socioeconomic sector in Tunisia and to minimize the environmental impact of the industrial sector’s extraction on groundwater and human health in the study area.

Radiation protection for Gabes phosphate area residents: Assessing natural radioactivity in soil and potable water samples

Phosphate mining activities are recognized to be one of various industrial processes generating enhanced Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORM) by introducing natural radionuclides into the surrounding soils and water bodies, posing a risk to human health.This study was carried out to assess the level of natural radionuclides in soils and potable waters collected from the phosphate area of Gabes city, located in southeastern Tunisia, and to evaluate radiation protection measures by estimating radiological health hazard parameters. Gamma spectrometry system employing an HPGe detector was used in this study to assess 40K, 232Th and 226Ra activity concentration in soils. The average values were found to be 163.7, 14.5, and 7.7 Bq kg−1, respectively, which were lower than worldwide average values. The radiological hazard parameters assessed in this study were radium equivalent activity (Ra-eq), external hazard index (Hex), external gamma absorbed rate (GDR), external annual effective dose (Deff) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR). The calculated average values of the above-mentioned parameters were of 41 Bq kg−1, 0.1, 20.2 nGy h−1, 24.8 μSv y−1 and 8.7 × 10−5 all of which were found to be below their permissible standards.For potable water samples, the activity concentrations of radium were analyzed using an HPGe detector and those of uranium were determined by alpha spectrometry. The average activity concentrations of uranium and radium isotopes in underground water samples were found to be higher than those obtained in tap water samples. For both types of water, the average values for all radionuclides were found to be below their respective reference limits.The annual ingestion effective doses were also estimated in this study. The estimated average values for infant and children for underground water samples were higher than the permissible limit of 100 μSv y−1 set by WHO. The 226Ra was the main contributor to the effective doses for different age categories, followed by 228Ra.

Evaluation of coal mine drainage and associated precipitates for radium and rare earth element concentrations

Coal mine drainage (CMD) and associated metal-rich precipitates have recently been proposed as unconventional sources of rare earth elements (REEs). However, the potential occurrence of radium (Ra), a known carcinogen, with the REE-bearing phases has not been investigated. We hypothesized that Ra may occur in solids that are precipitated from CMD as a “radiobarite” solid solution ((Ba,Sr,Ra)SO4) and/or adsorbed with hydrous metal oxides. REEs have been documented to sorb or co-precipitate with iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), and aluminum (Al) oxyhydroxide in CMD solids. Likewise, Ra has been documented to sorb to hydrous Fe and Mn oxides especially where sulfate (SO4) and/or barium (Ba) concentrations are insufficient to precipitate radiobarite. Thus, we conducted the first-ever survey of Ra concentrations in corresponding CMD water and solid samples in the United States. Samples were analyzed from 4 untreated and 9 treated CMD sites in both the bituminous and anthracite coal regions of Pennsylvania across a range of pH and SO4 concentrations. The dissolved Ra in CMD was relatively low (<0.5 Bq/L), consistent with radiobarite solubility; however, CMD solids were largely composed of amorphous Fe, Al, and Mn oxyhydroxide and silicate minerals. Ra was associated with Mn-enriched CMD solids, upwards of 875 Bq/kg. Total REE + yttrium (Y) content in the CMD solids was enriched upwards of 3600 mg/kg and was significantly correlated with Al content. These preliminary results suggest that REE extraction may target Al-rich solids to avoid Ra in Mn-rich solids.

The influence of method precision on assessing radiological hazards for patients using radium water in balneotherapy

Abstract The influence of uncertainty on the method adopted for the determination of radioactive radium concentration in water was analyzed due to the assessment of the radiation hazards of balneotherapy. For the calculation, we considered the influence of the bath in radioactive water containing only 226Ra. 226Ra concentration was determined with two γ-spectrometers armed with HPGe detectors with different relative efficiencies. Both spectrometers were energy-efficiency calibrated with a calibration source and based on numerical simulations. Different methods for qualitative γ-spectrum analysis were adopted. The emanation method and the liquid scintillation method were also used. The uncertainty of humans hazard assessment linearly depends on the adopted radiometric method precision. For effective dose calculation, two models were adopted: the model of external exposure proposed by ICRP Publication 144 and the Reference Men model proposed by ICRP Publication 23, respectively.

Determination of Radium concentration and Radon Exhalation Rates Using CR-39 Detector for Different Geopolymer Cement Samples Containing Industrial Wastes

Natural material like metakaolin, along with industrial wastes such as fly ash (FA), cement kiln dust (CKD), and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS), are being used to develop new affordable and environmentally friendly construction materials (Geopolymers) that result in reduced carbon dioxide emissions. Geopolymers are gaining attention for their ability to effectively remove organic and inorganic contaminants from wastewater, including dyes and heavy metals. However, the study of the radiation properties of eco-friendly geopolymer cement materials has received little attention. To address this gap, conducted a previous study to examine the radiation properties of different geopolymer cement samples. In this study, the analyzed the radon concentration, radium concentration, and annual effective dose of various pre-treated geopolymer cement samples that contained industrial wastes from dyes and heavy metals. By using the CR-39 detector as a passive technique for this examination. In the pretreated geopolymer cement samples, we used three types of reactive dye effluents - reactive black 5 (BD), reactive red 195 (RD), and reactive yellow 145 (YD) in the presence of heavy metals (Cu2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+). Based on our research, the concentration of radon ranged from 2.69 to 212.42 Bq m-3. The sample with the lowest value of radium concentration was labeled as (10) (GGBFS), while sample (9) (SF10-YD-Cu2+) had the highest value. Found that the annual effective doses were within the range of the world average for indoor and outdoor 1.55and0.58mSvy−1 respectively, except for sample 9 (SF10-YD-Cu2+) which had the highest radium concentration. The pretreated geopolymer cement mixes containing different dye effluents and heavy metals were found to be safe for use in construction areas, except for sample 9 (SF10-YD-Cu2+). Recommend using sample 9 (SF10-YD-Cu2+) only for public highways, bridges, and other well-ventilated buildings.

Measurement of Effective Radium Content and Radon Exhalation Rates in Soil Samples of Adigrat, Tigrai Region, Ethiopia

The predominant source of radiation exposure for the global population is natural radiation, originating from radioactive elements present in the Earth&amp;apos;s soil, air, and water. These elements, such as uranium, radium, and radon, have existed since the planet&amp;apos;s formation. Prolonged exposure, particularly in specific geographic locations, significantly contributes to radiation risks for populations. Exposure routes include inhaling radon gas, ingesting radioactive substances in food and water, and direct exposure to terrestrial gamma radiation. While natural radiation exposure generally remains within safe limits, certain factors can elevate risks, such as geological formations rich in radioactive minerals or proximity to nuclear facilities. Environmental conditions and geological factors can also influence radiation levels, leading to fluctuations in exposure risks. Monitoring and regulating radiation exposure are crucial to prevent surpassing permissible levels, which can result in health hazards like an increased risk of cancer. Effective management requires ongoing research, stringent regulations, and public awareness efforts to mitigate the risks associated with natural radiation exposure and protect public health. Effective radium content and radon exhalation rates in soil samples collected from Adigrat in Tigrai state of Ethiopia were experimentally measured by ‘‘Sealed Can Technique’’ using LR-115 type II plastic track detectors. The values of effective radium content were found to vary from16.11 Bq/kg to 34.24 Bq/kg with an average value of 25.93 Bq/kg and a standard deviation of 6.10. The mass and surface exhalation rate has been found to vary from 1.61x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-6&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; Bq kg&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; d&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; to 3.42 x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-6&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; Bq kg&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; d&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; and 0.81x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; Bq m&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-2&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; d&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; to 1.71x10&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-4&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;Bq m&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-2&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt; d&amp;lt;sup&amp;gt;-1&amp;lt;/sup&amp;gt;, respectively. The radium content in soil in the study area is below the permissible value of 370 Bq/kg as recommended by Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development.

State of the surface waters in the Mesta River basin, after the reclamation of the Eleshnitsa uranium deposit

In the period from 1955 to 1992, uranium ore was mined and processed in the Mesta River basin around the village of Eleshnitsa, region of Razlog. The ore processing plant was built and a tailings storage facility was built next to it. In the period 2002&amp;ndash;2006, the tailings storage was reclaimed, and in 2011&amp;ndash;2012 the ore mines were also reclaimed. For the treatment of drainage water, a treatment plant was built in the valley of Valchoto Dere River, a left tributary of the Mesta River. The radiological monitoring carried out by the Basin Directorate &amp;ldquo;West Aegean Sea Region&amp;rdquo; reveals a generally good quality of the surface waters in terms of the content of uranium and radium (226Ra) outside the area of the former uranium mining and the tailings storage facility. In this area, in some years a high content of natural uranium was found, with concentrations from 0.54 to 67.40 mg/l on average per year. The values significantly exceed (by 1.8 to 224.6 times) the norm regulated in the regulation for radiation protection and safety from the liquidation of the consequences of uranium mining. The spread of uranium is limited to a small area shortly downstream from the sources of contamination, but the potential risk to the local ecosystem should not be neglected. Radium, in contrast to uranium, has concentrations below the permissible limits in the twelve years studied. Its content varied from 0.025 to 0.11 Bq/l on average annually. The results show that the Mesta River near the border with the Republic of Greece is not contaminated with the studied radionuclides.