Physics Department, University of Malawi, Zomba P.O. Box 280, Malawi.
Centre for Applied Radiation Science and Technology, North-West University (Mafikeng), P/B X2046, Mmabatho 2735, South Africa.
Radiat Prot Dosimetry. 2022 Oct 1;198(17):1353-1360. doi: 10.1093/rpd/ncac173.
The activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th and 40K in the soil of areas surrounding the Kayelekera uranium mine were assessed. This study aims to provide a comprehensive profile of soil radioactivity distribution in the area surrounding the uranium mine to determine radiological hazards associated with mining and processing activities. Soil samples were analysed using gamma-ray spectrometry with a high-purity germanium detector. Mean specific activities of 238U, 232Th and 40K were 58.3 ± 3.7, 40.3 ± 0.3 and 590.9 ± 63.9 Bq kg-1, respectively. Results from this study have indicated changes in radioactivity levels of naturally occurring radioactive materials in the area surrounding the understudied mine, with certain areas close to the mine site showing elevated levels of 238U, highlighting the need for systematic and periodic monitoring.
评估了凯莱克拉铀矿周围地区土壤中 238U、232Th 和 40K 的活度浓度。本研究旨在提供铀矿周围地区土壤放射性分布的综合概况，以确定与采矿和加工活动相关的辐射危害。使用高纯锗探测器进行了伽马能谱分析。238U、232Th 和 40K 的平均比活度分别为 58.3±3.7、40.3±0.3 和 590.9±63.9 Bq kg-1。本研究结果表明，研究矿区周围地区天然放射性物质的放射性水平发生了变化，某些靠近矿区的地区 238U 水平升高，这突出表明需要进行系统和定期监测。
