Assessments of Radon Concentrations and Radiological Risks in Ground Water from Baridua, Meghalaya
摘要
This study investigates the concentration of radon (222Rn) in groundwater collected from Baridua, Ri-Bhoi district, Meghalaya, India. The collected samples were analyzed using emanometry techniques, and the radiological health impacts of 222Rn to humans are calculated through both inhalation and ingestion pathways. The samples were collected with special care to prevent radon loss and analyzed within 24 h of collection using a radon bubbler, Lucas Cell, and a programmable alpha counting system. The results indicate that radon concentrations in groundwater range from 15.44 to 224.41 Bq L−1, with a mean concentration of 50.31 Bq L−1, which is below the recommended limit of 100 Bq L−1 proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO). However, one sample exceeded this limit, and all samples exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) limit of 11.1 Bq L−1. Dose calculations revealed that the combined annual effective dose due to radon ingestion and inhalation exceeded the WHO recommended limit of 100 µSv y−1 for both adults and children. The higher doses for children, attributed to physiological differences and higher respiratory rates, suggest a greater health risk from radon exposure in this group. This investigation is important as it represents the first effort to monitor radon in groundwater in Meghalaya, a region rich in uranium-bearing rocks. The elevated radon concentrations are likely influenced by the unique geology and active tectonic features of the study area.