Assessment of Activity Concentrations of Radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) and Annual Effective Doses in Water from Gold Mining Pits, Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract: Gold mining activities can lead to the accumulation of naturally occurring radionuclides in water sources, posing potential health risks to local communities. This study assesses the activity concentrations of radionuclides (²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K) in 23 water samples collected from gold mining pits in Itagunmodi and Iperindo, Osun State, Nigeria. Using gamma-ray spectrometry, the measured activity concentrations were compared to global safety standards. The estimated annual effective dose for adult miners was also calculated to evaluate potential radiological health risks and ranged from 0.33 to 17.49 mSv/y. Results revealed varying concentrations of radionuclides, with some exceeding the recommended limits set by international regulatory bodies. The findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and mitigation strategies to minimize radiation exposure from mining-related water sources. Keywords: Radionuclides, Gold Mining, Water Contamination, Annual Effective Dose, Osun State, Gamma Spectrometry. Title: Assessment of Activity Concentrations of Radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th and 40K) and Annual Effective Doses in Water from Gold Mining Pits, Osun State, Nigeria Author: Kugbere Emumejaye, Isi, Pretty Oyibo, Amidu O. Mustapha, Adewole M. Gbadebo, Victor Mankinde International Journal of Life Sciences Research ISSN 2348-313X (Print), ISSN 2348-3148 (online) Vol. 13, Issue 2, April 2025 - June 2025 Page No: 41-47 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 23-April-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15268629 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/upload/book/Assessment%20of%20Activity%20Concentrations-23042025-5.pdf