RADIOACTIVITY IN GROUNDWATER WEST OF BASRA, IRAQ, USING GAMMA-RAY SPECTROSCOPY

Background: Groundwater, found in the voids of rocks below the surface of the earth, is a crucial source of water for drinking, irrigation, and, to a lesser extent, industrial uses. Water is essential for life and every economic activity, and it is used across residential, industrial, and agricultural sectors. Obtaining sufficient water of the appropriate quality and quantity is crucial for maintaining health. Providing fresh, high-quality water is vital for disease prevention and improving the quality of life. Water consumption has risen due to the increase in population and activities. Groundwater is particularly important for regional development, especially for human, agricultural, and industrial uses. Aims: The purpose of this study is to assess and analyze the radioactivity levels of Th-232, U-238, and K-40 in groundwater.In different areas of Zubair in Basra city, Iraq, the calculation of radiation hazard indicators is performed. Methods: A thallium-doped sodium iodide crystal detector was used to do the gamma-ray spectrum analysis. Results: The radioactivity concentrations of the radionuclides of U-238 ranged between (0.025-1.612) Bq/L and Th-232(0.001-1.282) Bq/L and K-40, (1.208-39.473) Bq/L, respectively. Furthermore, markers of radiation hazard were computed, such as the activity of radium (Ra), which varies between 0.641 to 3.857 Bq/L. The range of the average dose absorbed from the air (D) was between 0.345 to 2.016 nGy/h. The results of the gamma (I?) index were between 0.0055 and 0.03183, the internal hazard index (Hin) was between 0.00179 to 0.01211, and the external hazard index (Hex) was between 0.00173 and 0.01041. Discussion: All results obtained with a sodium iodide reagent doped with thallium for U-238 and Th-232 are within the WHO's recommended limits and do not endanger public health. However, there is a noted discrepancy in the results due to the geological variations from one region to another. Additionally, there is a variation and increase in the concentration of K-40 in different regions, primarily due to agricultural activities and the use of fertilizers, which raise the K-40 levels. Despite this increase, it does not pose a significant risk to the general public. Conclusions: Based on the obtained values, we may infer that there is no risk to the general population. Except for the sample (WK02 and WK014), both are appropriate for use in construction and agriculture.