Terrestrial radiation level in selected asphalt plants in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Abstract

An environmental radiation survey in asphalt processing plants in Rivers State was been carried out using a well calibrated Radalert survey meter. Measurements were carried out in four different locations of asphalt processing plants at different strategic points. Measured average values of 0.0223 ± 0.0017 mR/hr, 0.0225 ± 0.0023 mR/hr, 0.0180 ± 0.0030 mR/hr and 0.0189 ± 0.0009 mR/hr respectively were recorded. These results revealed the average doses equivalent obtained are higher than the safe radiation limit of (≤) 20mSv/yr recommended by UNSCEAR. The radiation level within these facilities in the plants is significantly higher than the standard background radiation level. Therefore the results show significant radiological risk.

Keywords: Effective dose, natural radioactivity, asphalt