Ground radiometric survey for assessment of environmental radioactivity in a fertilized farmland: A case history in southwestern Nigeria

Abstract

Soils in their natural state contain radionuclides and heavy metals at different concentrations which may be increased by the use of fertilizers. When the concentrations of radionuclides and in soils are higher in value than the recommended limits, this may pose health concern. In this study, absorbed dose rate was measured in-situ at thirty-five station points in the farmland using a caesium Iodide-based GammaRAE II R full range dosimeter held at gonald height above the surface. Results of the in-situ absorbed dose rate in air are presented and the potential risks to the farmers and near-by residents are equally assessed. The results revealed that the measured absorbed dose rate (ADRA) in the farm is high which is likely to be connected to the use of fertilizer in the farmland. It is highly recommended that the management of the farm should reduce the use of fertilizer but rather use natural organic manure that is less toxic. Also, a routine check on environmental radioactivity of the farmland should be done regularly for adequate monitoring.