External radiation exposure of the Angolan population living in adobe houses

Abstract

This study aims to investigate the radioactivity of adobe in Angola, where it is a widely used building material. Sixty samples have been collected from three remote areas of the country with different geological backgrounds (Cabinda, Huambo, Menongue). Activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K have been determined by gamma-ray spectroscopy and radiation hazard indices were also calculated. The area Huambo shows elevated 226Ra and 232Th values which can be explained by its older geological formations. 40K concentrations are low in general. Regarding external radiation risk, adobe from Angola is safe to use as building material.