Measurement of radon gas concentration and effective dose in water from the Midelt region of Morocco, Using nuclear track detectors (LR-115)

Abstract

The article's objective is to evaluate the concentration of radon in different water samples, with levels ranging from 0.31 Bq/L to2.24 Bq/L, the annual effective dose ranged from 2.09 to 8.83 (mSv/y). Radon (222Rn), a radioactive gas originating from the decay of 238U in the 226Ra decay series, is commonly found in rocks, soil, natural gas, and groundwater. Exposure to radon in both air and water can lead to human radiation exposure, potentially increasing the risk of specific types of cancer. The primary goal of this study is to measure radon levels in water samples from various locations in Morocco, specifically in the Midelt province and Daraa-Tafilalt region (located at 32° 40' 48″ North, 4° 44' 24″ West), using Solid State Nuclear Track Detectors of LR-115 type, It's important to mention that all the analyzed water samples recorded annual effective doses that fall within the global average recommended levels for ingestion exposure dose values set by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation. Based on these findings, there appear to be no radiation risks associated with radon gas in the study area.