Assessment of natural radioactivity and radiation dose distribution in the Western Ghats region of Karnataka, India
摘要
The activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K were analysed in 80 soil samples collected from the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats region of Karnataka. Gamma ray spectrometry was carried out to quantify the radionuclide concentrations using an HPGe detector. The geometric mean (GM) of activity concentrations were 32.8 ± 1.6 Bq kg−1 (226Ra), 38.1 ± 1.7 Bq kg−1 (232Th), and 193.3 ± 1.7 Bq kg−1 (40K). These values were compared with the world averages of 32, 45, and 412 Bq kg−1, respectively. Additionally, ambient gamma radiation levels were measured at these locations. The potential radiological risks associated with the soils were assessed through the computation of radium equivalent activity (Raeq), external hazard index (Hex), internal hazard index (Hin), absorbed gamma dose rate (ADR, nGy h−1), and annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE, mSv y−1). A comprehensive statistical analysis was performed on the data collected in this study. The results were carefully compared with findings from global studies and the internationally recommended values set by regulatory bodies. This research establishes a robust baseline for radiological parameters in the Western Ghats of Karnataka, India. The findings provide a valuable reference for future radiological assessments and environmental monitoring in the region.