Natural radionuclide concentrations in granite rocks in Aswan and Central-Southern Eastern Desert, Egypt and their radiological implications

Area of Science:

• Geology
• Environmental Science
• Radiation Protection

Background:

• Granite is a common construction material in Egypt.
• Understanding the radiological properties of construction materials is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the radiological impact of Egyptian granites used in construction.
• To determine the natural radionuclide content and associated radiation hazards.

Main Methods:

• Samples collected from five Egyptian localities.
• Radiological analysis using gamma spectrometry to measure (226)Ra, (232)Th, and (40)K.
• Petrographic and geochemical analyses were also performed.

Main Results:

• Radionuclide concentrations ranged from 9±0.5 to 111±7 Bq kg(-1) for (226)Ra, 8±1 to 75±4 Bq kg(-1) for (232)Th, and 100±6 to 790±40 Bq kg(-1) for (40)K.
• Calculated radium equivalents and hazard indices were below recommended safety limits for construction materials.
• Petrographic analysis revealed common granite minerals, while geochemical analysis showed high SiO(2), K(2)O, Na(2)O, and Al(2)O(3).

Conclusions:

• Egyptian granites studied are safe for use in construction regarding natural radioactivity.
• The radiological risks associated with these granite samples are within acceptable limits for residential buildings.