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Assessment of Radiological Safety of Migmatite Rocks around Bauchi Town, Northeastern Nigeria

Abdulmuhyi Yahaya Yaro, Abdullatif lawal, Ahmmad Isa Haruna, Usman Yahaya, Yaro, Abubakar Sadiq Muhammad, Abdulgaffar Issa

Abstract

This study evaluates the radiological safety and geochemical characteristics of migmatite rocks used as building materials in the Bauchi region of Nigeria. Twenty-four samples were collected and analyzed using gamma-ray spectrometry to determine the activity concentrations of naturally occurring radionuclides, including potassium-40 (40K), uranium-238 (238U), and thorium-232 (232Th). The results indicated elevated levels of radioactivity, with average concentrations exceeding global safety benchmarks. Radiological hazard indices such as the Annual Gonadal Dose Equivalent (AGDE) and Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk (ELCR) were notably above recommended limits, suggesting potential long-term health risks from indoor exposure, although other indices remained within acceptable international thresholds. The study therefore recommends cautious indoor use of these rocks due to elevated natural radioactivity.

References

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