Assessment of Radon Concentrations, Exhalation Rates, and Uranium Levels in Soil from Utmah Nature Reserve, Yemen, Using CR-39 Detector
摘要
This research employs the CR-39 detector to explore the concentrations of radon gas and radium, as well as the effective dose rates, in agricultural soils located in the Al-Azraa and Tahayjer regions of the Utmah Nature Reserve, within Dhamar Governorate, Yemen. Considering the area's significant agricultural activities alongside its geological seismic characteristics, conducted an extensive analysis of 50 soil samples to evaluate potential health hazards faced by the local community. The findings revealed that around 24% of these samples exceeded the upper range of the reference benchmark commonly used in environmental soil studies (200–600 Bq.m−3), with the highest recorded concentration reaching 1047.98 Bq.m−3. The radon exhalation rates, measured at both surface and mass levels, ranged from 3.131 to 15.208 Bq.m−2.day−1 and from 0.08 to 0.39 Bq.kg−1.day−1, respectively, demonstrating a strong correlation with radium concentrations and affirming their utility as reliable indicators of soil radioactivity. The results illuminate a notable impact from agricultural practices, including the use of potentially radon-laden groundwater for irrigation and the extensive application of chemical fertilizers, which contribute to the accumulation of radioactive nuclides in the soil. Such practices have heightened environmental radiation exposure, a situation made more alarming by the fact that 80% of the annual effective dose calculations exceeded recommended safety thresholds, with levels peaking at 26.439 mSv.y−1. This study emphasizes the critical necessity for sustainable agricultural techniques and ongoing radiological monitoring within these soils to reduce health risks. By establishing a foundational dataset, it offers essential information for policymakers and researchers regarding the radiological consequences of agricultural practices, particularly in geologically active regions, laying the groundwork for future inquiries into managing environmental radiation on both local and global fronts. Ultimately, this research provides significant insights into the dynamics of environmental radioactivity and calls for improved radiation safety measures in agricultural practices worldwide.