Natural radioactivity distribution studies in Trivandrum district, Kerala, India

Abstract

The distribution pattern of radioactive minerals in Trivandrum district of Kerala has been investigated. The surface radioactivity was measured employing a jeep-mounted four-channel gamma-ray spectrometer coupled to a high volume Na I (T1) crystal detector. The distribution of radioactivity has been correlated with the corresponding litho-units and major structures of the study area. The total countrate from sedimentaries including beach sands and pegmatite rich zones (∼ 3,500 CPS) are significantly higher than that of the laterites and gneisses which are substantiated by laboratory studies. © 1986 Indian Academy of Sciences.