Gamma spectroscopic analysis of DU residues in post- conflict region of Southern Iraq: Mount Sanam area case study

Southern Iraq is suffering from widespread depleted uranium (DU) contamination. Depleted uranium, a well-established carcinogen, is a byproduct of uranium enrichment and has been utilized extensively in both military and civilian applications. Its exceptional density (70% denser than lead) and pyrophoric properties made it ideal for armor-penetrating ammunition, leading to approximately 1,200 tons being deployed in Iraq during the Gulf Wars of 1991 and 2003. As a consequence, Basra is experiencing alarming rates of cancer, including breast, lung, leukemia, and lymphoma, with 7,000 to 8,000 new cases reported annually. This study focused on the Mount Sanam area in southern Iraq, employing gamma spectral analysis of soil samples as a nondestructive, fast, and cost-effective technique to identify and quantify DU contamination. The percentages of 235U/238U and 238U/235U were calculated. Results from field and laboratory analyses confirmed the presence of depleted uranium residues, and the dose equivalent values were many times higher than the measured average background for the region, which was around 0.09 µSv/h. The 234Th/226Ra ratio in soil samples ranged between 0.19-1.14. The activity ratios of 234mPa/235U were greater than 21.7, providing strong evidence that these samples contain DU, underscoring ongoing environmental and health challenges in the region.