Assessment of natural radioactivity and gamma-ray dose in monazite rich black Sand Beach of Penang Island, Malaysia. Issue 1 (15th June 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shuaibu, Hauwau Kulu; Khandaker, Mayeen Uddin; Alrefae, Tareq; Bradley, D.A.
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 119:Issue 1(2017)
• Page Start: 423
• Page End: 428
• Publication Date: 2017-06-15
• Subjects: Penang Island -- Beach sand -- HPGe γ-ray spectrometry -- Natural radioactivity -- Dose assessment; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.03.026
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: Activity concentrations of primordial radionuclides in sand samples collected from the coastal beaches surrounding Penang Island have been measured using conventional γ-ray spectrometry, while in-situ γ-ray doses have been measured through use of a portable radiation survey meter. The mean activity concentrations for 226 Ra, 232 Th and 40 K at different locations were found to be less than the world average values, while the Miami Bay values for 226 Ra and 232 Th were found to be greater, at 1023 ± 47 and 2086 ± 96 Bq kg ̶ 1 respectively. The main contributor to radionuclide enrichment in Miami Bay is the presence of monazite-rich black sands. The measured data were compared against literature values and also recommended limits set by the relevant international bodies. With the exception of Miami Bay, considered an elevated background radiation area that would benefit from regular monitoring, Penang island beach sands typically pose no significant radiological risk to the local populace and tourists visiting the leisure beaches. Highlights: Reference data of NORMs in beach sand of Penang Island is reported. All measured radiological hazard indices for Miami Bay beach are found higher than the permissible limit. Presence of monazite rich black sand is the reason for enrichment of 238 U and 232 Th at Miami Bay.