ESTIMATION OF GROSS ALPHA AND GROSS BETA RADIOACTIVITY IN SOILS WITHIN COASTAL AREA OF NIGER DELTA, NIGERIA

Abstract

This investigation aims to estimate the levels of gross α and β radioactivity in soils from the Niger Delta, a region impacted by extensive oil drilling activities. Soil samples were taken from fifteen (15) locations, and radiation measurements were made using a gas-flow proportional counter. The results indicated a range of alpha activity concentrations from 1.908 to 19.09 Bq/kg, with an average of 7.725 ± 4.79 Bq/kg, and beta activity concentrations from 448.0 to 4098.0 Bq/kg, with an average of 1749.8 ± 319.6 Bq/kg. Compared to the control values, the observed radiation levels were notably elevated. Observed patterns also showed a moderate positive correlation between α and β activities, indicating the impact of common sources or environmental influences. While the radiation levels observed align with those reported in some similar studies, the study recommends continued monitoring due to potential long-term environmental and health impacts, especially given the elevated beta radiation concentrations.