Assessment of Ra-226, Ra-228, Pb-210 and Po-210 activity concentrations and inorganic chemistry composition of the mineral waters of Amparo, SP

Abstract

Significant concentrations of natural radionuclides dissolved can be found in mineral water springs, mainly radionuclides from the 238U and 232Th decay series that are used worldwide due to its therapeutic properties. The estimation of possible adverse effects on human health due to the ingestion or inhalation of radioactive substances present in these waters is a relevant factor in the context of Radiological Protection. The objective of this work was to evaluate the activity concentrations of the radionuclides 226Ra, 228Ra, 210Pb and 210Po in the mineral water springs of the city of Amparo in the seasons of summer, autumn, winter and spring of 2018 and the committed effective doses due to the consumption of these waters, and as well as, characterize its chemical composition. The city of Amparo has 11 springs distributed in many places of the city and belongs to the Paulista Water Circuit. The highest activity concentrations were obtained for the radionuclides 228Ra and 210Po and consequently the highest committed effective dose. Among the chemical elements analyzed, Al, Mn, and Pb presented the highest concentrations in all the mineral water springs.