Assessment of Radioecological Safety of Coals and Ash and Slag Waste

The analysis of statistical data on the natural radioactivity of coals from various deposits was carried out. It was noted that natural radioactivity is mainly caused by the presence of radioactive nuclides of uranium, thorium and potassium in coals, the concentration of which varies significantly. Fossil coals of Kazakhstan are generally characterized as weakly radioactive ones. In conceptual terms, a brief radiogeochemical characteristic of coals is given in terms of various forms of radionuclides in the constituent parts of coal. The fact of significant concentration of radionuclides in combustion waste (ash, slag) is confirmed. Ash and slag waste and fly ash enriched with these radionuclides pose a potential hazard to the environment. Systematic monitoring of the radioecological safety of coals and ash and slag waste is required.