Spatial Distributions and Risk Assessment of the Natural Radionuclides in the Granitic Rocks from the Eastern Desert, Egypt

Abstract

This paper investigates the distribution of four natural radioisotopes 238U, 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in one hundred twenty-five granitic samples covering sixteen mountainous areas situated at the northern, central and southern parts of the Eastern Desert of Egypt (EDE). The concentrations of the examined radioisotopes in the collected samples were recognized utilizing a HPGe detector based gamma spectrometry. The average concentrations of these radioisotopes were higher when compared with the worldwide reference values. The radiation risk indicators including the radium equivalent activity index (Raeq), external and internal hazard indicators (Hex and Hin), external and internal level indicators (Iα and Iγ), absorbed dose rate (ADR), annual effective dose rate (AEDR), annual gonadal dosage equivalent (AGDE), and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR), associated with these radioisotopes have been calculated and compared with their recommended global values and safety limits. These indicators showed that the granites from most studied areas exceeded the universal standards pointing to the difficulty of using them as building materials. This study together with future investigations will serve to develop an essential database for future environmental monitoring surveys.

Geochemical characteristics, hazards impact assessment and radiogenic heat production of the alkaline rocks

“…As a result, people living or working in these areas are exposed to increased levels of radiation, which pose health risks if proper safety measures are not followed. However, these levels of natural radiation can vary greatly depending on rock mineralogical and geochemical composition and tectonic settings 5 . Natural radiation in alkaline rocks primarily arises from the presence of specific radioactive elements like U, Th, and K. These radioactive elements decay over time, emitting radiation 6 , 7 .…”

Radiological Hazard Evaluation of Some Egyptian Magmatic Rocks Used as Ornamental Stone: Petrography and Natural Radioactivity

“…Granitic rocks represent one of the most important ornamental stones, along with marble [4]. The former is characterized by its durability and prestigious shape, and can be used as decorative stone in floors, stairs, walls, bridges, and sculptures [5,6].…”

“…Granitic rocks represent one of the most important ornamental stones, along with marble [ 4 ]. The former is characterized by its durability and prestigious shape, and can be used as decorative stone in floors, stairs, walls, bridges, and sculptures [ 5 , 6 ]. Egyptian quarries represent one of the main producers globally as one of the top eight raw material-producing countries, producing about 3.2 million tons of quarried stone under twenty-five different brands.…”

Natural Radioactivity, Radiological Hazard and Petrographical Studies on Aswan Granites Used as Building Materials in Egypt

“…In recent years, granites used as building materials have been very popular; the global amount of granite production is comparable to that of marble [4]. Due to their durability and prestigious appearance, granitic rocks are widely used as building and decorative materials in buildings, bridges, monuments, pavement sidewalks, and many other exterior projects [5,6]. Indoor, polished granite slabs and tiles are used in countertops, tile floors, stair treads, and many other design elements.…”