JOURNAL ARTICLE

Natural radioactivity and radiological hazard analysis of construction stones from various quarries in Machakos County-Kenya.

  • Published In: Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 2023, v. 199, n. 17. P. 2076 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Mutua, John O; Linturi, James M; Maweu, Onesmus M; Kebwaro, Jeremiah M; Matsitsi, Stanley M 3 of 3

Abstract

This article focuses on assessing the natural radioactivity levels and associated radiological hazards of construction materials from Kyasioni, Mavoloni, and Kathaana quarries in Machakos County, Kenya. Using NaI(Tl) gamma spectrometry, the study measured activity concentrations of radionuclides ^226Ra (radium-226), ^232Th (thorium-232), and ^40K (potassium-40), finding values that exceed global averages but result in absorbed and annual effective dose rates below international safety limits. Radiological hazard indices, including radium equivalent activity and external/internal hazard indices, were within permissible levels, indicating that stones from these quarries pose no significant health risks for building use. The study recommends further onsite radon assessments to evaluate occupational exposure for quarry workers.

Additional Information

  • Source:Radiation Protection Dosimetry. 2023/10, Vol. 199, Issue 17, p2076
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Construction and Building
  • Publication Date:2023
  • ISSN:01448420
  • DOI:10.1093/rpd/ncad211
  • Accession Number:173085742
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