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This study investigates soil radioactivity at the Pomuk gas field in Uzbekistan, a region with history of underground nuclear activity. Using a NaI (Tl) scintillation gamma spectrometer, soil samples were analyzed for concentrations of 232Th, 226Ra, 40K, and 137Cs. Concentrations were found to be in the range of 19.0–31.0 Bq/kg for 232Th, 12.0–32.0 Bq/kg for 226Ra, 450.0–634.0 Bq/kg for 40K, and 2.4–11.0 Bq/kg for 137Cs. Surface radon flux density was measured using a coal sorbent-based passive method, with values ranging from 26.1 to 79.0 mBq/m2s. Mean activity values for radium equivalent (Raeq) and gamma representative level index (Iγ) were calculated to be 75.2–96.5 Bq/kg and 0.3–0.4 Bq/kg, respectively. The absorbed airborne gamma dose rates (GDR) varied between 41.0 and 52.0 nGy/h, while annual effective dose rates (AEDR) were 0.3–0.4 μSv/year. The radiological risk assessment indicates the area is within safe limits for the population and environment, providing a foundation for future radiological monitoring programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reservoirs and artificial channels are vital sources of water for irrigated areas in arid and semi-arid regions. As such, monitoring the radioecological state of these water bodies is crucial for public health and safety. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the radioecological condition of the Sobirsoy reservoir and surrounding areas. We used gamma-spectrometry to measure natural and anthropogenic radionuclides, and coal sorbents to measure radon flux density on the ground surface. Based on our findings, we conducted a radiological risk assessment and compiled an exposure dose map of the study area. The results showed that the degree of radioactive danger to people in populated areas is within safe limits. Overall, our study provides important information for policymakers and stakeholders to make informed decisions regarding the management and safety of the Sobirsoy reservoir and its surroundings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The "passive" sorption detectors based on the activated charcoal together with scintillation spectrometry were utilized to measure radon flux density from the soil surface as well as volumetric activity of indoor radon at the dwellings of rural areas of Uzbekistan. Additionally, gamma dose rates as well as concentrations of natural radionuclides in soil and building materials samples were determined. Based on the values of natural radionuclides, common radiological indices have been calculated. It was found that varying greatly, 94% radon flux density values did not exceed 80 mBq/(m2·s), while volumetric activities of radon were in the range of 35–564 Bq/m3. The radium equivalent activity for studied soil and building materials samples were below the allowed limit of 370 Bq/kg. Computed gamma dose rates were in the range of 55.50–73.89 ƞGyh−1 below the limit of 80 ƞGyh−1 and annual effective dose rate 0.068–0.091 mSvy−1, the average value of which was higher than the standard limit > 0.47 mSvy−1. The gamma representative index range was 0.89–1.19 with an average of 1.002 which was higher than the standard limit of 1.0. The range of activity utilization index was equal to 0.70–0.86 with an average value 0.77 which was lower than the recommended level ≤ 2.0. And lastly, excess lifetime cancer risk index values were from 1.9 × 10−4 to 2.5 × 10−4 and were lower than the recommended value 2.9 × 10−4 indicating low radiological risk. The results are consistent with the research conducted by other authors earlier, implying suitability of employing the method for the assessment of residential areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]