Natural Radioactivity Levels of the Beach Sands of Cleopatra Beach and Damlatas Beach (Türkiye) and Their Impact on Human Health

Abstract

HPGe γ spectrometry method was used to measure the natural radioactivity levels (40K, 232Th, and 226Ra) of the beach sand samples from Cleopatra Beach and Damlatas Beach in Antalya (Türkiye). The mean 40K, 232Th, and 226Ra radioactivity levels of the studied samples were calculated as 276.88 ± 17.24, 25.04 ± 2.88, and 17.06 ± 1.68 Bq/kg, respectively. Being below the radiation limits, these values indicate no risk in terms of public health. Moreover, the radiological risk parameters, such as excess lifetime cancer risk, radium equivalent activity (Raeq), absorbed γ dose rate (D), annual effective dose equivalent (Eaed), γ index (Iγ), internal radiation hazard index (Hin), and external radiation hazard index (Hex), were calculated. The values of all of these parameters were found to be below the internationally accepted radiation limit values. In addition, distribution maps showing the radiological situation of the region were generated although they did not pose a hazard to public health. No results were found in the analysis processes related to artificial radioactivity.