Natural radioactivity levels and radiation hazards in some magmatic rocks from the eastern and western deserts

This paper reports the natural radioactivity of some igneous rocks used as dimension stones, following the trend of other studies on the evaluation of the risks to human health caused by the rock’s natural radioactivity as a consequence of their use as decorative stones and building materials in residential or occupational settings. The whole rock composition of the studied samples was determined using Induced Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry ICPMS. Gamma-ray spectrometry has been utilized to determine the ⁴⁰ K, ²²⁶Ra, and ²³²Th activity concentrations in 96 rock types collected from 18 localities. The following activity concentration range was found: 14.88–4148 ²²⁶Ra, 4.78–192.08 ²³²Th, and 206.34–2128.61 ⁴⁰K Bq/kg. These data were used to measure Ra_eq, H_ex, and Iγ, besides other parameters, which were compared with the threshold limit values recommended by UNCEAR. They have been exceeded in samples of Qatar, ElDib, and ElGara ElSoda. The results indicated that most of the studied rocks do not present a risk to human health and may be used indoors. The rocks yielded indices above the threshold limit values recommended and could be used outdoors without any restrictions. These findings contribute valuable insight into decision-making processes when using the examined material in the construction of schools, hospitals, museums, factories, and monuments, particularly regarding material safety and radiological risk management.