Evaluation of natural radioactivity and radiological hazard indicators in soil samples from the environment of Al-Kasik oil refinery in Nineveh Governorate, Iraq.

Abstract

The specific activity of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in the soil samples collected from Al-Kasik Oil Refinery in Nineveh Governorate, Iraq, were assessed by γ-spectroscopy analysis using a NaI (Tl). Results show that the average of the measured specific activities of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K are 19.80 +- 0.948 Bq/kg,13.65+- 1.021 Bq/kg and 213.71+- 8.896 Bq/kg, respectively. The average specific activity of these radionuclides was compared with the world average value. The radiological hazard indices were calculated for each of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K and compared with the internationally recommended standard exposure limits, as they were within those limits. The study showed that the soil in the study area may not pose a significant risk to workers and residents close to the area. However, further studies and investigations into the level of exposure of flora and fauna in that area are necessary