Measurement of Natural Radioactivity and Evaluation of Radiation Hazards in Soil of Abua/Odual Districts Using Multivariate Statistical Approach (Published)
The activity concentration of 238U, 232Th and 40K in the soil from Abua/Odua districts of Rivers State have been measured using gamma ray spectrometry. Radiological health parameters were estimated from the activity concentration of these radionuclides in order to assess health implication of exposure of the general public to the studied soil. The average value of 238U, 232Th and 40K measured are 67.40, 507.19 and 8217.77 Bqkg-1respectively. The calculated radium equivalent (Raeq), absorbed dose (D), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), activity utilization index (RLI),internal and external hazard indices (Hin, Hex), excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR), and annual gonald dose (AGED) were used to access the health implication of exposure to the soil studied. The results were higher than the recommended safe and criterion limits given by UNSCEAR. The statistical method was used to study the relationship between the radionuclides and also the calculated radiation parameters. The results of this study revealed an area of high gamma emitting radionuclides which could lead to significant health hazard to the exposed populace. The result will also serve as a baseline radiometric data for future studies in the area and radiological mapping of the area
Keywords: : Radionuclides, Gonald dose, Multivariate, Radiological, Spectroscopy, norms