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Natural radionuclide levels and the associated radiological risks in soils from the three mesoregions of Pernambuco state, Brazil

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Abstract

A large-scale survey of natural radionuclides in the soils is presented. 105 topsoil samples were collected and analysed by gamma spectrometry. The data indicated that climatic conditions might impact the content of natural radionuclides. Low-humidity conditions and igneous bedrock were associated with the highest median value of 40K in the Agreste region (667 Bq kg−1). The humid climate of Zona da Mata was associated with the lowest median value of 40K (39 Bq kg−1) and the highest levels of radium. Soils from most parts of the state may be used as building materials without presenting a radiological risk.

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Acknowledgements

The authors thank the Serviço Geológico do Brasil (CPRM) for the collection of samples and for providing the sample information. In addition, the authors thank the CPRM for their innovative and efficient work. This research project would not be possible without the maps and information provided and published by the CPRM.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Federal Institute of Rio de Janeiro, Rua Dr.José Augusto Pereira dos Santos, s/nº Neves, São Gonçalo, RJ, CEP 24425-285, Brazil

    André L. C. Leal

  2. Institute of Radiation Protection and Dosimetry (IRD/CNEN), Av. Salvador Allende, 3773 - Barra da Tijuca, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, 22783-127, Brazil

    Dejanira C. Lauria & Fernando C. A. Ribeiro

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  1. André L. C. Leal
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  3. Fernando C. A. Ribeiro
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Correspondence to André L. C. Leal.

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Leal, A.L.C., Lauria, D.C. & Ribeiro, F.C.A. Natural radionuclide levels and the associated radiological risks in soils from the three mesoregions of Pernambuco state, Brazil. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 324, 521–531 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-020-07124-6

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