Work

Gamma Ray Spectrometric Analysis of Sand Samples from Selected Beaches along Kenyan Coastline

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: In this study, the activity concentration levels of 238U, 232Th, and 40K in sand samples collected from Shanzu, Nyali, Kenyatta, Tiwi, Shelly, and Diani beaches selected along the Kenyan coastline were determined using a gamma ray spectrometer with a NaI(Tl) detector. The average activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th, and 40K in sand samples were analyzed as 87 ± 4, 98 ± 4, and 1254 ± 62 Bq/kg, respectively. Also, radium equivalent (Raeq) activity and internal (Hin) and external (Hex) hazard index were calculated to assess the radiological hazards associated with the use of sand samples as building materials. The average values of Raeq, Hin, and Hex were found as 327 ± 16 Bq/kg, 0.98, and 0.72, respectively. The average values of outdoor and indoor annual effective dose rates were estimated as of 0.23 and 0.63 mSv/y, respectively, which are below maximum recommended limit of 1 mSv/y. Generally, these results indicate no significant radiological health hazards for the studied beaches.

Source: The Scientific World JOURNAL

DOI: 10.1155/2021/6621645

Authors: Willis Otieno Gor Odongo, Nadir Hashim, Margaret Wairimu Chege

Institutions: Kisii University, Kenyatta University

Language: English

Topic: Radioactivity and Radon Measurements

Subfield: Radiological and Ultrasound Technology

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $860

Funder: National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation