Hiwa Hossaini, Meghdad Pirsaheb, Borhan Ahmadi, Mohammad Moridi, Sara Kianpour
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Purpose
Variations in radon emissions have been reported during geophysical events, particularly earthquakes. Therefore, the present study aimed to determine the concentration of radon in groundwater drinking sources following the Sarpol-e Zahab earthquake in western Iran.
Methods
This study was conducted at 20 groundwater wells and springs in Sarpol-e Zahab City following the Ezgeleh earthquake. Radon concentration in the collected water samples was measured using an RTM 1688-2 radon monitor. The results were compared with pre-earthquake data as well as measurements obtained in 2024. In addition, the annual effective dose due to radon exposure through inhalation and ingestion was estimated. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 16.
Results
Radon concentrations ranged from 3.566 to 15.829 Bq/L. The maximum annual effective doses were estimated to be 0.00332 mSv/year for inhalation and 0.0398 mSv/year for ingestion. Statistical analysis revealed no significant association between dissolved radon concentration and water temperature. Moreover, in all sampling locations, the estimated annual effective doses were below the reference level recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Conclusion
Although the estimated annual effective doses were below the WHO reference level, the observed variations in groundwater radon concentrations before and after the earthquake suggest that seismic activity may influence dissolved radon levels. These findings support the inclusion of radon monitoring in post-earthquake groundwater quality surveillance programs in seismically active regions.
期刊介绍:
Journal of Environmental Health Science & Engineering is a peer-reviewed journal presenting timely research on all aspects of environmental health science, engineering and management.
A broad outline of the journal''s scope includes:
-Water pollution and treatment
-Wastewater treatment and reuse
-Air control
-Soil remediation
-Noise and radiation control
-Environmental biotechnology and nanotechnology
-Food safety and hygiene