What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to evaluate natural radioactive pollution and its potential hazards in soils of Kufa farms.

June 19, 2026

Assessment of natural radioactivity and radiological hazards in agricultural soils of the Kufa Region, Iraq

NANidaa Shaker Madlool Al-ZuraijawiTohoku Medical and Pharmaceutical University MMMaha Meteab Mohammed NNNada Adil NawafUniversity of Baghdad

Key Points

The aim is to evaluate natural radioactive pollution and its potential hazards in soils of Kufa farms.
Collected 20 soil samples from Kufa farms and prepared them for analysis.
Processed samples using NaI (Tl) gamma-ray spectrometry to measure U-238, Th-232, and K-40 levels.
Calculated internal hazard index (Hin) and external hazard index (Hex) to assess radiological safety.
Measured levels of U-238, Th-232, and K-40 were within permissible limits set by IAEA.
Mean values of radionuclides were lower than global reference values reported by UNSCEAR.
Soils posed no radiological risks, indicating they are safe for agricultural use.

Abstract

In this study, the assessment of natural radioactive pollution in the soil of the Kufa farms was carried out. 20 soil samples were collected and prepared according to a standard method and processed using a NaI (Tl) gamma-ray spectrometry system. The measured values of U-238, Th-232 and K-40 were found to be within the permissible limits established by IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency). The mean values were all lower than the worldwide reference values reported by UNSCEAR. Similarly, the hazard indexes (internal hazard index (Hin) and external hazard index (Hex) ) were evaluated. Variations in radionuclide concentrations between sites were identified and are primarily attributed to natural factors such as local geology, soil texture, and agricultural practices. We conclude that the soils of the Kufa farms pose no radiological risks and are safe for agricultural use and food production.

Ask AI

Helpful

Bookmark

View Full Paper