Study of the radiological parameters associated with small-scale mining activities at Dunkwa-on-Offin in the central region of Ghana

Studies have been carried out to assess the radiological exposure to the general public from small-scale mining activities in Dunkwa-on-Offin and its surrounding communities. Direct gamma spectrometry was used to determine the concentration of naturally occurring radionuclides 226 Ra (238 U),232 Th,...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Radiation protection and environment 2016-04, Vol.39 (2)
Main Authors: Emmanuel, Marfo, Emmanuel, O, Augustine, Faanu, Sey, Mayin
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Developing countries
Laboratories
LDCs
Mining
Radioisotopes
Spectrometry
Studies
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Summary:Studies have been carried out to assess the radiological exposure to the general public from small-scale mining activities in Dunkwa-on-Offin and its surrounding communities. Direct gamma spectrometry was used to determine the concentration of naturally occurring radionuclides 226 Ra (238 U),232 Th, and 40 K in the soil samples. The mean activity concentrations measured for 226 Ra (238 U),232 Th, and 40 K in the soil samples were 25.4 +- 11.1, 29.4 +- 15.6, and 225.9 +- 93.8 Bq/kg, respectively. The total annual effective dose to the public was estimated to be 0.05 mSv. The results, thus, indicate an insignificant exposure of the general public. The radiological parameters assessment as a result of 226 Ra (238 U),232 Th, and 40 K was also carried out. Data established from the study could aid in formulating guidelines, to educate and create awareness on the levels of naturally occurring radionuclides resulting from small-scale mining activities in Dunkwa-on-Offin and Ghana as a whole.
ISSN:0972-0464
2250-0995
DOI:10.4103/0972-0464.190390