Assessment of radiation hazard from radioactive elements 226Ra, 232Th, 40K in locally and industrially refined salt for consumption in Nigeria

Abstract

This study investigated the radioactivity levels of ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K in locally processed and industrially refined salt samples from Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Results showed higher activity concentrations of radionuclides in locally processed salt compared to the industrially refined salt. Consequently, locally processed salt exhibited higher radiation doses (absorbed dose rate, annual effective dose rate, and annual gonadal dose equivalent) than refined salt. These findings highlight the potential radiological impact of consuming locally processed salt and emphasize the need for radiation protection measures for workers in the local salt industry.