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Spatial distribution of NORMs concentrations and assessing potential risk to inhabitants in western Chattogram, Bangladesh.

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Title: Spatial distribution of NORMs concentrations and assessing potential risk to inhabitants in western Chattogram, Bangladesh.
Authors: Rashed-Nizam, Quazi Muhammad1 (AUTHOR), Islam Bhuian, AKM Saiful2 (AUTHOR), Resma, Nighat Sultana2 (AUTHOR), Debnath, Manish2 (AUTHOR), Anik, Md. Ashik Azad Khan1,3 (AUTHOR) ashikazadaneek@gmail.com
Source: International Journal of Environmental Analytical Chemistry. Dec2025, Vol. 105 Issue 16, p4021-4038. 18p.
Subjects: Radioactive elements, Radioactive substances, Radioecology, Soil sampling, Radiation protection, Grids (Cartography)
Geographic Terms: Bangladesh, Chittagong (Bangladesh)
Abstract: This study represents a pioneering endeavour in consolidating previous measurements of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs) within the Chattogram division, Bangladesh. Employing a meticulous approach, data was overlaid onto a comprehensive grid map covering the entire Chattogram region, comprising 523 grids, each of 8.05 km x 8.05 km. The analysis revealed numerous areas where NORMs concentrations had not been previously measured. To bridge this gap, soil samples were collected from 56 previously unmeasured locations across Cumilla and Chandpur districts and analysed using high purity Germanium (HPGe) detector technology. Results indicated average activity concentrations of Ra-226, Th-232, and K-40 at 27.30 ± 5.41, 46.09 ± 7.88, and 362.50 ± 48.10 Bq.kg−1 respectively, with no detectable presence of Cs-137 or other anthropogenic radionuclides, affirming the region's absence of fallout or accidental releases. Additionally, measured values for radiation hazard indices are well within acceptable limits set by United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR). Spatial distribution maps of radionuclide concentrations and absorbed dose rates were generated not only for the immediate study area but also for the entire Chattogram division, integrating previously collected data for the first time. These distribution maps, alongside the comprehensive findings of this study, establish a pivotal dataset for future research and regulatory efforts, providing invaluable insights into the region's radiological landscape. HIGHLIGHTS: Previously measured data of NORMs are accumulated to avoid redundancy in Chattogram division in this study. A proposed systematic grid map has prepared and applied for sample collection. Non-measured places in Chattogram division have revealed for first time in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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Database: Engineering Source
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Abstract:This study represents a pioneering endeavour in consolidating previous measurements of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs) within the Chattogram division, Bangladesh. Employing a meticulous approach, data was overlaid onto a comprehensive grid map covering the entire Chattogram region, comprising 523 grids, each of 8.05 km x 8.05 km. The analysis revealed numerous areas where NORMs concentrations had not been previously measured. To bridge this gap, soil samples were collected from 56 previously unmeasured locations across Cumilla and Chandpur districts and analysed using high purity Germanium (HPGe) detector technology. Results indicated average activity concentrations of Ra-226, Th-232, and K-40 at 27.30 ± 5.41, 46.09 ± 7.88, and 362.50 ± 48.10 Bq.kg−1 respectively, with no detectable presence of Cs-137 or other anthropogenic radionuclides, affirming the region's absence of fallout or accidental releases. Additionally, measured values for radiation hazard indices are well within acceptable limits set by United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation (UNSCEAR). Spatial distribution maps of radionuclide concentrations and absorbed dose rates were generated not only for the immediate study area but also for the entire Chattogram division, integrating previously collected data for the first time. These distribution maps, alongside the comprehensive findings of this study, establish a pivotal dataset for future research and regulatory efforts, providing invaluable insights into the region's radiological landscape. HIGHLIGHTS: Previously measured data of NORMs are accumulated to avoid redundancy in Chattogram division in this study. A proposed systematic grid map has prepared and applied for sample collection. Non-measured places in Chattogram division have revealed for first time in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
ISSN:03067319
DOI:10.1080/03067319.2024.2357749