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Radiation Sciences Research Reveals High Levels of Natural Radioactivity in Drinking Water and Soil

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A recent study published in the Brazilian Journal of Radiation Sciences has highlighted the presence of natural radioactive materials in the ecosystem of the APA Passauna region in Curitiba, Brazil. The research, conducted by researchers from the Federal University of Technology-Parana, used radiometric survey equipment to measure the concentrations of radon and thorium in well water and soil air. The study found that seven out of nine wells studied showed a committed effective dose value for the ingestion and inhalation of drinking water above the reference level set by the WHO.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study revealed high levels of natural radioactivity in drinking water and soil in the APA Passauna region, with 40K present in all investigated sites and lower amounts of 226Ra and 232Th.
  • The estimated dose equivalent at one specific point was 1.65 mSv/h, with a 220Rn concentration of (664 ± 36) kBq/m³.
  • Seven out of nine wells studied showed a committed effective dose value for the ingestion and inhalation of drinking water above the reference level set by the WHO (0.1 mSv/year).
  • The excess values ranged from 0.106 to 0.385 mSv/year.
  • Radon concentrations in indoor air ranged from (30 ± 2) to (270 ± 20) Bq/m³, within normal parameters.
  • The study complies with Brazilian radioprotection standards and has significant social relevance, especially in a region where water is predominantly sourced from wells.

Statistics:

  • 40K present in all investigated sites
  • 226Ra and 232Th present in lower amounts
  • Estimated dose equivalent at one specific point: 1.65 mSv/h
  • 220Rn concentration: (664 ± 36) kBq/m³
  • Committed effective dose value for 7 out of 9 wells: above 0.1 mSv/year
  • Excess values: 0.106 to 0.385 mSv/year
  • Radon concentrations in indoor air: (30 ± 2) to (270 ± 20) Bq/m³

Sources:

  • "Determination of natural radioactivity levels in drinking water and soil at APA Passauna (Curitiba, PR)." Brazilian Journal of Radiation Sciences 2025, 12(4A (Suppl.)): e2747-e2747.
  • Brazilian Radiation Protection Society (Sociedade Brasileira de Protecao Radiologica, SBPR).

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