The Impact of Geologic and Structural Settings on Radioactivity: A Case Study From Sahab Area, Jordan

Abstract

‎The present study investigated the Sahab area's highly radioactive anomalous zone, utilizing a GRS-500 differential gamma-ray spectrometer to measure gamma-ray activity in the field. Solid-state nuclear track detectors were used to determine uranium concentrations. Our data revealed that gamma-ray activity ranged between 100 and 2500 counts per second, whereas uranium concentrations ranged between 88 and 355 parts per million. The highest uranium concentrations and gamma-ray activity were identified along fault traces and synclines, whereas the lowest levels were detected close to anticlines. As a result, this recommended approach may be utilized to discover concealed structures (faults and folds). Furthermore, higher gamma-ray and uranium concentrations were associated with the Al-Hisa Phosphorite Formation. The correlation coefficient between gamma-ray activity and uranium content was 0.92. The association between gamma-ray activity and lithology revealed that the Al-Hisa Phosphorite formation had the highest gamma-ray activity levels, which reach 2500 counts per second. The gamma-ray activity was between 200 and 600 counts per second in the Muwaqqar Chalk Marl formation, 200 to 800 counts per second in the Wadi As Sir Limestone formation, and 100–400 counts per second in the Superficial Deposits and Um Rijam Chert.