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Kaya FC, Bouh HAIT, Laissaoui A, Elenga H, Benkdad A, Sebbar M, Dallou GB, Kayath AC. A baseline monitoring of radiological sediment quality and associated risk assessment in coastal ecosystems of the Republic of Congo. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2024; 196:801. [PMID: 39120831 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-024-12974-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
This study presents the first data on levels of natural radioactive elements in sediments from coastal ecosystems of the Republic of Congo. Sediment samples from five coastal sites were collected and analyzed by high-resolution gamma spectrometry for determination of activities of long-lived gamma-emitting radionuclides (234Th, 238U, 226Ra, 210Pb, 228Th, 228Ra, and 40 K). The specific activities were of the same order of magnitude as those measured in sediments of most countries neighboring the Republic of Congo. However, variations in activities were observed from one site to another and also from one sampling point to another within the same site without exceeding the global average reference values. It can be assumed, therefore, that no significant anthropogenic impact is perceptible in the study area. The most commonly used radiological hazard parameters, based mainly on 238U, 232Th, and 40 K activities, were assessed and the ERICA tool was applied to quantify the radiation exposure burden to human and biota resulting from radionuclides in sediments. Besides being useful for future monitoring efforts, the data produced in this work could be important for the worldwide database on radioactivity in the oceans and seas (MARIS) since no data are available in the Congolese marine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Freddy Cacharel Kaya
- Marien Ngouabi University, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, B.P 69, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
- Center for Minerals and Geological Research (CRGM), B.P 14520, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Hasna A I T Bouh
- National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology (CNESTEN)-Morocco, B.P 1382Agdal, R.P 10001, Rabat, Morocco.
| | - Abdelmourhit Laissaoui
- National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology (CNESTEN)-Morocco, B.P 1382Agdal, R.P 10001, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Hilaire Elenga
- Marien Ngouabi University, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, B.P 69, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
- Center for Minerals and Geological Research (CRGM), B.P 14520, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Azzouz Benkdad
- National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology (CNESTEN)-Morocco, B.P 1382Agdal, R.P 10001, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Mohammed Sebbar
- National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Science and Technology (CNESTEN)-Morocco, B.P 1382Agdal, R.P 10001, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Guy Blanchard Dallou
- Marien Ngouabi University, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, B.P 69, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
- Laboratory of Nuclear Physics and Applications (LPNA), National Institute for Research in Exact and Natural Sciences (IRSEN), P.O. Box 2400, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
| | - Aimé Christian Kayath
- Marien Ngouabi University, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, B.P 69, Brazzaville, Republic of Congo
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Nhon DH, Sieu LN, Hai PS, Thanh TD, Loan BTT, Ve ND, Vuong BV, Luu NTM, Long TH, Chien HT, The ND. Assessment of the level and risk of radioactive hazards in coastal sediments in northern Vietnam. ISOTOPES IN ENVIRONMENTAL AND HEALTH STUDIES 2024:1-25. [PMID: 38973646 DOI: 10.1080/10256016.2024.2374085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Radioactivity in coastal sediments in northern Vietnam was examined using data from five sediment cores to assess radioactivity concentrations and radiation risk indices. Radiation risk indices included radium equivalent activity (Raeq), the absorbed dose rate (ADR), the annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), the activity utilization index (AUI), the external hazard index (Hex), the representative level gamma index (Iγr), and the annual gonadal effective dose rate (AGDE). The radioactivity concentrations of 40K, 232Th, 226Ra, 238U, and 137Cs were 567, 56.1, 35.1, 37.9, and 1.18 Bq/kg, respectively. The average concentrations of 40K, 232Th, 226Ra, and 238U were above the global average at five sites, except for 137Cs, which was low. The Raeq, Hex, and AUI indices were below the recommended values, while the AEDE, ADR, AGDE, and Iγr indices were above the recommended values. Moreover, 40K, 232Th, 226Ra, and 238U had significant impacts on the radiation hazard indices Raeq, ADR, AEDE, Iγr, AUI, Hex, and AGDE. There are three coastal sediment groups on the northern coast of Vietnam: Group 1 has a higher radioactivity and radiation risk index than Group 2 but a lower value than Group 3. Group 3 had the highest radioactivity and radiation risk index. The values of 40K, 232Th, 226Ra, and 238U and the ADR, AUI, Iγr, and AGDE indices in the sediment threaten the living environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dang Hoai Nhon
- Institute of Marine Environment and Resources, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
| | - Le Nhu Sieu
- Dalat Nuclear Research Institute, Vietnam Atomic Energy Commission, Da Lat City, Vietnam
| | - Phan Son Hai
- Dalat Nuclear Research Institute, Vietnam Atomic Energy Commission, Da Lat City, Vietnam
| | - Tran Duc Thanh
- Institute of Marine Environment and Resources, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
| | - Bui Thi Thanh Loan
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Ha Noi City, Vietnam
- Institute of Environment, Vietnam Maritime University, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Dac Ve
- Institute of Marine Environment and Resources, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
| | - Bui Van Vuong
- Institute of Marine Environment and Resources, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Thi Mai Luu
- Institute of Marine Environment and Resources, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
| | - Tran Huu Long
- Institute of Environment, Vietnam Maritime University, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
| | - Hoang Thi Chien
- Institute of Marine Environment and Resources, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
| | - Nguyen Duc The
- Institute of Marine Environment and Resources, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hai Phong City, Vietnam
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Khan M, Chaudhary MZ, Khan EU, Abid J, Nasir T, Yaqoob N. Assessment of radiological indices and physiochemical characterization of sediments in Chashma Lake, Pakistan. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:1219. [PMID: 37718371 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11825-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Twenty surface sediment samples were gathered from Chasma Lake, deciding the radionuclides 137Cs, 226Ra, 228Ra, 232Th, and 40K and their associated hazard indices. The deliberate radionuclide activities of present research have been contrasted with earlier research, and acquired outcomes in the present study are found below the results in the world. The radiation hazard indices following the presence of natural radionuclides in sediment samples were estimated, and the results assigned the values of all the determined radiological indices found inside the worldwide suggested limits. It was concluded from the current review that the sediment of Chashma Lake is safe for construction and agriculture and does not make radiation dangerous to the nearby local area of the lake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Khan
- District Education Authority Mianwali, Mianwali, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Jawaria Abid
- Isotope Application Division, PINSTECH, P.O. Nilore, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Tabassum Nasir
- Institute of Physics, Gomal University, D. I Khan, Pakistan
| | - Nadeem Yaqoob
- Isotope Application Division, PINSTECH, P.O. Nilore, Islamabad, Pakistan
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İsel P, Sahin L, Hafızoğlu N, Ganioğlu E, Mülayim A. Natural and artificial radioactive pollution in sediment and soil samples of the Bosphorus, Istanbul. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023:10.1007/s11356-023-27455-7. [PMID: 37160855 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27455-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
This study focused on the determination of natural (238U, 232Th, and 40K) and artificial (137Cs) radionuclide concentrations both in 55 sediment samples collected from various depths in the Bosphorus and 5 soil samples from the coastline of the Bosphorus, Istanbul, using gamma-ray spectrometry with an HPGe detector. The mean activity concentrations of natural 238U, 232Th, and 40K and anthropogenic 137Cs were determined to be 11.41 ± 0.21 Bq kg-1, 6.87 ± 0.16 Bq kg-1, 369.61 ± 3.41 Bq kg-1, and 6.54 ± 0.11 Bq kg-1, respectively, in the sediment samples. The average activity concentrations of 238U, 232Th, 40K, and 137Cs radionuclides in the soil samples were also measured to be 11.65 ± 0.18 Bq kg-1, 9.55 ± 0.15 Bq kg-1, 369.43 ± 3.09 Bq kg-1, and 4.57 ± 0.09 Bq kg-1, respectively. Radiological contour maps based on the activity concentrations of natural and artificial radionuclides in the sediment samples for the Bosphorus, Istanbul, were created. The total annual effective doses due to soil samples were calculated to be 34.58 μSv y-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pınar İsel
- Institute of Graduate Studies in Science, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34452, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Latife Sahin
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Nurgül Hafızoğlu
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ela Ganioğlu
- Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ayşegül Mülayim
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Istanbul University, Vezneciler, 34134, Istanbul, Turkey
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Zhou S, Li Z, Peng S, Zhang D, Li W, Hong M, Li X, Yang J, Lu P. Combining eDNA and morphological approaches to reveal the impacts of long-term discharges of shale gas wastewaters on receiving waters. WATER RESEARCH 2022; 222:118869. [PMID: 35870390 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2022.118869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The potential threats of shale gas wastewater discharges to receiving waters is of great concern. In this study, chemical analyses and biomonitoring were performed three times in a small river that received treated wastewater over a two-year period. The results of chemical analyses showed that the concentrations of chloride, conductivity, barium, and strontium increased at the discharge site, but their concentrations decreased considerably farther downstream (≥500 m). The concentrations of toxic organic compounds (16 US EPA priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and 6 priority phthalates), trace metals (strontium, arsenic, zinc, copper, chromium, lead, cadmium, nickel, and neodymium), and natural radionuclides (40K, 238U, 226Ra, and 232Th) were comparable to the corresponding background values or did not exhibit obvious accumulation in sediments with continued discharge. Morphological and environmental DNA approaches were used to reveal the potential effects of wastewater discharges on aquatic ecosystems. The results showed that the community structure of benthic invertebrates was not altered by the long-term discharges of shale gas wastewaters. However, the biodiversity indices (richness and Shannon) from the two approaches showed inconsistencies, which were caused by multiple reasons, and that substrates had a strong influence on the morphological biodiversity indices. A multimetric index was proposed to further analyze morphological and environmental DNA data, and the results showed no significant difference between the upstream and downstream sites. Generally, the chemical and biological results both demonstrated that the discharges of shale gas wastewaters had limited impacts on river ecosystems within two years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangbo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Department of Environmental Science, School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Shuchan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Department of Environmental Science, School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China.
| | - Daijun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Department of Environmental Science, School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Weichang Li
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Mingyu Hong
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Xingquan Li
- Department of Environmental Science, School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Jianghua Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Pollution Control & Resource Reuse, School of the Environment, Nanjing University, Nanjing 210023, China
| | - Peili Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Department of Environmental Science, School of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China.
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Zhou S, Peng S, Li Z, Zhang D, Zhu Y, Li X, Hong M, Li W, Lu P. Risk assessment of pollutants in flowback and produced waters and sludge in impoundments. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 811:152250. [PMID: 34921872 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.152250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Due to the growing hydraulic fracturing (HF) practices in China, the environmental risks of pollutants in flowback and produced waters (FPW) and sludge in impoundments for FPW reserves have drawn increasing attention. In this context, we first characterized the comparative geochemical characteristics of the FPW and the sludge in impoundments that collected FPW from 75 shale gas wells, and then the risks associated with the pollutants were assessed. The results demonstrated that four organic compounds detected in the FPW, naphthalene, acenaphthene, dibutyl phthalate, and bis(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate, were potential threats to surface waters. The concentrations of trace metals (copper, cadmium, manganese, chromium, nickel, zinc, arsenic, and lead) in the FPW and sludge were low; however, those of iron, barium, and strontium were high. The accumulation of chromium, nickel, zinc, and lead in the sludge became more evident as the depth increased. The environmental risks from heavy metals in the one-year precipitated sludge were comparable to those reported in the environment. However, the radium equivalent activities were 10-41 times higher than the recommended value for human health safety, indicating potential radiation risks. Although hydrophobic organic compounds, such as high-molecular-weight polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), phthalate esters (PAEs), benzene, ethylbenzene, toluene, and xylene (BTEX), tended to accumulate in the sludge, their environmental risks were within tolerable ranges after proper treatment. Multiple antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), such as those for macrolide, lincosamide, streptogramin (MLS), tetracycline, and multidrug resistances, were detected in the shale gas wastewaters and sludge. Therefore, the environmental risks of these emerging pollutants upon being discharged or leaked into surface waters require further attention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shangbo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Shuchan Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Li
- Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Daijun Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Yantao Zhu
- Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Xingquan Li
- Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Mingyu Hong
- Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Weichang Li
- Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Peili Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Coal Mine Disaster Dynamics and Control, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China; Department of Environmental Science, College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Key Laboratory of the Three Gorges Reservoir Region's Eco-Environment, Ministry of Education, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China.
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Afzal I, Chaudhary MZ, Khan EU, Nasir T, Yaqoob N. Radiological risk assessment in sediment of Namal Lake, Mianwali, Pakistan. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2022; 194:223. [PMID: 35217922 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-022-09881-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study is concentrated on the radiological risk assessment of sixteen surface sediment samples recovered from Namal Lake, District Mianwali, Punjab, Pakistan. The activity of 137Cs, 40 K, 226Ra, 228Ra, and 232Th was carried out with the help of a high purity germanium detector (HPGe) in the sediment, varied in the ranges of > 0.02-3.73 ± 1.31, 98.32 ± 21.45-341.02 ± 58.67, 18.34 ± 2.16-34.23 ± 4.34, 1.62 ± .30-2.34 ± .52, and 0.14 ± 0.10-2.34 ± 0.59 Bq kg-1 with average values 0.74 ± 0.29, 237.26 ± 37.97, 25.06 ± 4.74, 1.97 ± 0.39, and 1.73 ± 0.33 Bq kg-1, respectively. The measured concentrations in the current study have been compared with other earlier studies in the world. The data was also used for determining the other useful parameters like radium equivalent activity, absorbed dose rate, annual effective dose rate, and external and internal hazards index to assess the radiological risk assessment for the environment around the study area. The ERICA Tool software was also applied for radiological risk assessment for lake fish due to the radioactivity present in the lake sediments. It was concluded from the results of ERICA tool that the risk quotient in this study is less than one indicating that no toxic effects of radioactivity for Namal Lake fish.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irfan Afzal
- Institute of Physics, Gomal University, D. I. Khan, Pakistan
| | | | | | - Tabassum Nasir
- Institute of Physics, Gomal University, D. I. Khan, Pakistan
| | - Nadeem Yaqoob
- Isotope Application Division, PINSTECH, P.O. Nilore, Islamabad, Pakistan
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Abbasi A, Zakaly HMH, Algethami M, Abdel-Hafez SH. Radiological risk assessment of natural radionuclides in the marine ecosystem of the Northwest Mediterranean Sea. Int J Radiat Biol 2021; 98:205-211. [PMID: 34919001 DOI: 10.1080/09553002.2022.2020359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Purpose: This study aimed to assess the radiological risk of natural radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th, and 40K) to marine ecosystem biota. Materials and Methods: The study site in this was the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus. With the use of the RESRAD-BIOTA (RESidual RADioactivity BIOTA) code, the tissue concentration, external and internal dose rate of aquatic animals and riparian animals were estimated. Results: The total tissue concentrations of the aquatic animals and riparian animals were simulated at 1.14 × 106 Bq/kg (water media) to 0 Bq/kg (sediment media), and 1.33 × 106 Bq/kg (water media) to 9.79 × 101 Bq/kg (sediment media), respectively. The total dose rate for aquatic animals and riparian animals were ranged from 1.94 × 10-2 to 0 Gray per day (Gy/d) and 1.46 × 10-2 to 7.40 × 10-7 Gy/d, respectively. Conclusions: Based on the risk assessment of this study, there is no significant impact due to organisms' exposure to natural radioactivity. Although, further consideration of the exposure levels is required due to the potential effects of protracted low-level ionizing radiation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akbar Abbasi
- Faculty of Engineering, University of Kyrenia, Kyrenia, TRNC, via Mersin 10, Turkey
| | - Hesham M H Zakaly
- Institute of physics and technology, Ural Federal University, Yekaterinburg, 620002, Russia.,Physics Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, 71524 Assuit, Egypt
| | | | - Shams H Abdel-Hafez
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, Taif University, P.O.Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
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Wang F, Kong D, Xu L, Ji C, Jiang L. Distributions of environmental radionuclides in a marine core from the eastern continental shelf of Hainan Island, South China Sea and risk assessment. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-021-08081-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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10
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Ait Bouh H, Laissaoui A, Ziad N, El Kotbi MC, Benmhammed A. LEVELS OF NATURAL AND ANTHROPOGENIC RADIONUCLIDES IN SEDIMENTS OF SOME MOROCCAN COASTAL AREAS AND DOSE ASSESSMENT BASED ON ERICA TOOL. RADIATION PROTECTION DOSIMETRY 2021; 195:99-113. [PMID: 34387691 DOI: 10.1093/rpd/ncab116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In this work, we considered the concentrations of natural and anthropogenic radionuclides (namely the 40K, 210Pb, 226Ra, 137Cs, 234Th, 228Th and 228Ra) in sediments from Moroccan coast areas by considering estuaries (Sebou and Loukkos) and marine ecosystems (M'diq Bay and three Lagoons: Moulay Bousselham, Sidi Moussa and Oualidia). Sediment samples were analyzed using Gamma spectrometry. The objective was to establish radioactivity levels in Moroccan coastal areas as well as radiological risk assessment by using the ERICA tool. The software allows the estimation of dose rates to biota (a set of reference organisms by default). The highest activity concentrations were found in sediment samples of Sidi Moussa Lagoon, possibly due to the anthropogenic activities, while the lowest levels were reported in Sebou estuary, attributed most probably to a flooding event that occurred in the same year of sampling. Also, 210Pb and 40K have the most significant concentrations, while 137Cs has the lowest concentrations with a great resemblance with similar works. The World Wide Average concentration of 226Ra was exceeded in the three lagoons and that of 40K only exceeded at Sidi Moussa Lagoon. The application of ERICA tool allowed the assessment of total dose rates that are mainly due to internal exposure with strong contribution of 226Ra mainly for phytoplankton in the case of marine ecosystems and insect larvae, mollusc-bivalve, mollusc-gastropod and zooplankton for estuary ecosystems. The total dose rates were far lesser than the admissible dose rate proposed by ERICA tool (10 μGy h-1) and, therefore, unlikely to cause harmful effects to organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Ait Bouh
- Centre National de l'Energie, des Sciences et des Techniques Nucléaires (CNESTEN), B.P.1382 R.P., 10001 Rabat, Morocco
| | - A Laissaoui
- Centre National de l'Energie, des Sciences et des Techniques Nucléaires (CNESTEN), B.P.1382 R.P., 10001 Rabat, Morocco
| | - N Ziad
- Ecole Nationale des Sciences Appliquées, Université Ibn Tofail, Kenitra, Morocco
| | - M C El Kotbi
- Faculté des Sciences, Université Ibn Tofail, Kenitra, Morocco
| | - A Benmhammed
- Faculté des Sciences, Université Ibn Tofail, Kenitra, Morocco
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Radomirović M, Stanković S, Mandić M, Jović M, Mandić LJ, Dragović S, Onjia A. Spatial distribution, radiological risk assessment and positive matrix factorization of gamma-emitting radionuclides in the sediment of the Boka Kotorska Bay. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 169:112491. [PMID: 34049066 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Surface sediment from the Boka Kotorska Bay (Adriatic Sea) was analyzed for the content of technogenic cesium (137Cs) and naturally occurring (40K, 226Ra, 232Th, 238U) radionuclides. The activity concentrations of the radionuclides have been correlated with the major elements (Si, Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Ti, P, Mn) content of sediment samples. The spatial interpolation identified primordial radioactivity more pronounced in the inland of the bay. Correlation and hierarchical cluster analyses clearly distinguished 226Ra, 232Th, and 238U from 137Cs. In addition, a strong association between primordial radionuclides and most major elements was found. Positive matrix factorization apportioned technogenic and natural radionuclides sources, while Si and Ca were separated from other elements. Radiological hazard parameters (Raeq, D, AEDE, Hin, Hex, AGDE, AUI) that include the doses and indices, and the excess lifetime cancer risk indicate that the risk in the studied area due to gamma radiation is within the acceptable level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Radomirović
- Innovation Center of the Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, 11120 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Slavka Stanković
- Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, 11120 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milica Mandić
- Institute of Marine Biology, University of Montenegro, 85330 Kotor, Montenegro
| | - Mihajlo Jović
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11351 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ljiljana Janković Mandić
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11351 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Snežana Dragović
- Vinča Institute of Nuclear Sciences, National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 11351 Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Antonije Onjia
- Faculty of Technology and Metallurgy, University of Belgrade, 11120 Belgrade, Serbia.
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12
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Assessment of radioactivity concentration of natural radionuclides and radiological hazard indices in coral reefs in the Egyptian Red Sea. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s10967-021-07896-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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13
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Suliman II, Alsafi K. Radiological Risk to Human and Non-Human Biota Due to Radioactivity in Coastal Sand and Marine Sediments, Gulf of Oman. Life (Basel) 2021; 11:549. [PMID: 34208166 PMCID: PMC8230884 DOI: 10.3390/life11060549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural and 137Cs radioactivity in coastal marine sediment samples was measured using gamma spectrometry. Samples were collected at 16 locations from four beaches along the coastal area of Muscat City, Gulf of Oman. Radioactivity in beach sand was used to estimate the radiological risk parameters to humans, whereas the radioactivity in marine sediments was used to assess the radiological risk parameters to non-human biota, using the ERICA Tool. The average radioactivity concentrations (Bqkg-1) of 226Ra, 232Th, 40K, 210Pb and 137Cs in sediments (sand) were as follows: 16.2 (16.3), 34.5(27.8), 54.7 (45.6), 46.8 (44.9) and 0.08 (0.10), respectively. In sand samples, the estimated average indoor (Din) and outdoor (Dout) air absorbed dose rates due to natural radioactivity were 49.26 and 27.4 and the total effective dose (AEDTotal; µSvy-1) ranged from 150.2 to 498.9 (average: 275.2). The measured radioactivity resulted in an excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) in the range of 58-203 (average: 111) in and an average gonadal dose (AGD; µGy.y-1) ranged from 97.3 to 329.5 (average: 181.1). Total dose rate per marine organism ranged from 0.035 µGy h-1 (in zooplankton) to 0.564 µGy h-1 (in phytoplankton). The results showed marine sediments as an important source of radiation exposure to biota in the aquatic environment. Regular monitoring of radioactivity levels is vital for radiation risk confinement. The results provide an important radiological risk profile parameter to which future radioactivity levels in marine environments can be compared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ibrahim I. Suliman
- Department of Physics, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11642, Saudi Arabia
| | - Khalid Alsafi
- Department of Radiology, Medical Physics Unit, King Abdulaziz University, P.O. Box 80215, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia;
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14
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Wanjeri VWO, Okuku EO, Barsanti M, Schirone A, Delbono I, Owato G, Delfanti R. Baseline radionuclide and heavy metal concentrations in sediments of Sabaki River estuary (Kenya, Indian Ocean). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 164:112033. [PMID: 33515826 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Baseline study of natural (7Be, 210Pb, 226Ra, 234Th, 228Ra, 40K) and anthropogenic (137Cs) radionuclides was carried out in two cores collected from Sabaki River estuary (Kenya, Indian Ocean). There was no exponential decrease of excess 210Pb down the cores, which did not allow dating and determination of heavy metal pollution history. The use of 137Cs as a time marker was not possible due to its low fallout rates in East Africa. The short-lived radioisotope 7Be, a tracer of river floods, confirmed 2018 flood in Sabaki River estuary. Heavy metal concentration in the two cores showed nonsystematic trends with depth. Only Pb concentration in Sabaki River estuary was higher than the background levels. Application of the "Environmental Risk from Ionising Contaminants Assessment and management" (ERICA) tool confirmed that the potential dose rates to biota from the sediment radioactivity concentrations are unlikely to pose appreciable ecological risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- V W O Wanjeri
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P.O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya.
| | - E O Okuku
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P.O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - M Barsanti
- ENEA, Marine Environment Research Centre, I-19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - A Schirone
- ENEA, Marine Environment Research Centre, I-19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - I Delbono
- ENEA, Marine Environment Research Centre, I-19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - G Owato
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P.O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - R Delfanti
- ENEA, Marine Environment Research Centre, I-19100 La Spezia, Italy
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15
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Klubi E, Abril JM, Mantero J, García-Tenorio R, Nyarko E. Environmental radioactivity and trace metals in surficial sediments from estuarine systems in Ghana (Equatorial Africa), impacted by artisanal gold-mining. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 218:106260. [PMID: 32421580 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2020.106260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2019] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This paper reports concentrations of γ-emitter radionuclides (40K, 137Cs, 210Pb, 226Ra, 228Ra, 228Th and 234Th) and some metals (Al, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, As, Sr, Cd, Sb, Cs, Pb, Th and U) in surficial sediments from the Ankobra, Pra and Volta estuaries, in Ghana. Artisanal gold-mining in the Ankobra and Pra basins promoted moderate enrichments of As, Sb, Cu, Cs and Cr in their estuarine sediments, with respect to the reference background of the Volta Estuary. Radionuclide concentrations were in the range found in the Earth's crust. Present data do not support any conclusion on their potential enrichments due to gold-mining activities. Radionuclide isotopic ratios revealed a transfer of 228Ra from sediments to the water column. Pearson correlation coefficient matrices showed different patterns, which were reasonably understood after novel approaches: i) inter-estuaries comparison of slopes in the linear regressions of element-concentrations vs Al, Fe and Cs; ii) study of Al-normalized concentrations of elements; iii) excess 210Pb informing on local sedimentary conditions. The metal enrichments observed in the Ankobra and Pra estuaries are associated with the Fe-rich compounds in sulphide ores (such as FeAsS) transported along the river course and deposited in the estuary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Klubi
- Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
| | - José M Abril
- Departamento de Física Aplicada I. Universidad de Sevilla. ETSIA, Sevilla, Spain.
| | - Juan Mantero
- Departamento de Física Aplicada II, Universidad de Sevilla. ETSA, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Rafael García-Tenorio
- Departamento de Física Aplicada II, Universidad de Sevilla. ETSA, Sevilla, Spain; Centro Nacional Aceleradores (Universidad de Sevilla-Junta Andalucía-CSIC), Sevilla, Spain
| | - Elvis Nyarko
- Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana; Vice Chancellor of the Regional Maritime University, Acra, Ghana
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16
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Yakovlev EY, Malov AI, Druzhinin SV, Zykova EN, Orlov AS. Transformation of the radionuclides composition of river sediments in the area of the exploited Lomonosov diamond deposit (NW Russia). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2020; 213:106142. [PMID: 31983451 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2019.106142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The article is devoted to the study of the activity of the natural radionuclides 40K, 232Th, 226Ra and technogenic 137Cs radionuclide in the river sediments of watercourses around the Lomonosov diamond deposit (northwestern Russia). This is the only large diamond mining and beneficiation complex in Europe. Samples of river sediments and surface waters were taken from the Zolotitsa River and its tributaries in the area of the diamond deposit. Samples of rocks were taken from quarries. Samples of kimberlites used for enrichment and rocks entering the dumps were selected. Measurements of the activity of radionuclides in bottom sediments and rocks were conducted using the low-background semiconductor gamma spectrometry method. For measurements, a detector from high-purity germanium was used. The study of uranium isotopes in bottom sediments and waters was conducted using the alpha spectrometry method. The average activity of 137Cs, 226Ra, 232Th and 40K were 5.4, 9.0, 11.2, 318.8 Bq·kg-1 respectively. The impact of the development of the field on the change in the radioecological state of the bottom sediments was evaluated. Several patterns of radionuclide accumulation have been found depending on the physicochemical parameters of river sediments. These patterns are due to the technogenic influence of the mining and beneficiation complex. The performed studies present the first evaluation of the impact of diamond mining on natural radionuclides' distribution and accumulation in the river sediments within the adjacent territories.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Yu Yakovlev
- N. Laverov Federal Centre for Integrated Arctic Research of Russian Academy of Sciences, 109 Severnoj Dviny Emb., Arkhangelsk, 163000, Russia.
| | - A I Malov
- N. Laverov Federal Centre for Integrated Arctic Research of Russian Academy of Sciences, 109 Severnoj Dviny Emb., Arkhangelsk, 163000, Russia
| | - S V Druzhinin
- N. Laverov Federal Centre for Integrated Arctic Research of Russian Academy of Sciences, 109 Severnoj Dviny Emb., Arkhangelsk, 163000, Russia
| | - E N Zykova
- N. Laverov Federal Centre for Integrated Arctic Research of Russian Academy of Sciences, 109 Severnoj Dviny Emb., Arkhangelsk, 163000, Russia
| | - A S Orlov
- N. Laverov Federal Centre for Integrated Arctic Research of Russian Academy of Sciences, 109 Severnoj Dviny Emb., Arkhangelsk, 163000, Russia
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17
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Fallah M, Jahangiri S, Janadeleh H, Kameli MA. Distribution and risk assessment of radionuclides in river sediments along the Arvand River, Iran. Microchem J 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.microc.2019.02.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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18
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Uddin S, Behbehani M. Concentrations of selected radionuclides and their spatial distribution in marine sediments from the northwestern Gulf, Kuwait. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 127:73-81. [PMID: 29475717 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2017] [Revised: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 11/22/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study focuses on creating a baseline for 40K, 210Pb, 137Cs, 90Sr, 226Ra, 228Ra, 238U, 235U, 234U, 239+240Pu and 238Pu in marine sediments in the northwestern Gulf. The respective measured concentration ranges were 386-489, 32.3-48.8, 1.5-2.9, 4.53-5.42, 18.3-23.1, 18.8-23.0, 22.3-30.5, 0.99-1.33, 25.6-34.8, 0.30-0.93, and 0.0008-0.00018Bqkg-1. The levels of these radionuclides are generally comparable to values reported for other marine waters in the northern hemisphere. The 137Cs activity in the Gulf sediments offshore Kuwait is an order of magnitude lower compared to sediments from northeastern Iran. Other than that finding, no hot spots were observed in sediments adjacent to power and desalination plants, oil and gas industrial activities or wastewater treatment facilities. These data will serve as a baseline to gauge possible future inputs of radionuclides in the northern Gulf. The calculated average ratio of 235U/238U activity in the area is in agreement with the reported figure of the natural uranium ratio, suggesting the absence of depleted uranium (DU) at all the stations. The low concentration of 239+240Pu suggests that there is no significant source of plutonium except that from atmospheric fallout from weapon testing and possible dry deposition via long-range dust transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Uddin
- Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, Kuwait.
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19
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Botwe BO, Nyarko E, Lens PNL. Settling fluxes and ecotoxicological risk assessment of fine sedimentary metals in Tema Harbour (Ghana). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 126:119-129. [PMID: 29421078 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2017] [Revised: 10/26/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Sediment traps were deployed in the Tema Harbour to estimate the settling fluxes of silt-clay particles and associated metals (Fe, Mn, Pb, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ni, Hg, Sn and As) and characterise their potential ecotoxicological risks. The mean daily settling fluxes of the silt-clay particles and associated metals ranged from 42.7 to 85.0gm-2d-1 and 1.3×10-2 to 49.4mgm-2d-1, respectively, and were characterised by large fluctuations at each station. The silt-clay and metal fluxes strongly correlated, indicating the important role of the silt-clay particles in metal transport and distribution in the harbour. Geochemical indices indicated anthropogenic influences on the harbour as the Pb, Cr, Zn, Hg, Sn and As content in the settling silt-clay particles exceeded their average crustal concentrations. Sediment quality guidelines indicated these metals pose appreciable ecotoxicological risks, particularly As. Increasing temporal trends in As necessitates increased pollution control efforts at the harbour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin O Botwe
- UNESCO-IHE, PO Box 3015, 2601 DA Delft, The Netherlands; University of Ghana, Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, PO Box LG 99, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Elvis Nyarko
- University of Ghana, Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, PO Box LG 99, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Piet N L Lens
- UNESCO-IHE, PO Box 3015, 2601 DA Delft, The Netherlands
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20
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Botwe BO, Abril JM, Schirone A, Barsanti M, Delbono I, Delfanti R, Nyarko E, Lens PNL. Settling fluxes and sediment accumulation rates by the combined use of sediment traps and sediment cores in Tema Harbour (Ghana). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 609:1114-1125. [PMID: 28787785 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.07.139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2017] [Revised: 07/14/2017] [Accepted: 07/15/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Settling fluxes and sediment accumulation rates in coastal Tema Harbour (Ghana) were investigated by the combined analyses of results in sediment traps and sediment cores. Sediment traps were deployed at 5 stations within the Tema Harbour at two sampling depths and were retrieved every two weeks till the end of 12weeks to estimate the Settling Fluxes (SFs). Four sediment cores from the harbour were analysed for their radioactivity (7Be, 234Th, 210Pb, 212Pb, 226Ra, 40K and 137Cs) profiles to quantify Sediment Accumulation Rates (SARs). The sediment cores exhibited variable bulk density profiles, indicating highly dynamic and non-steady sedimentation conditions. 7Be-derived gross-estimates of very recent SARs using the constant flux-constant sedimentation (CF-CS) model were in the range of 2.5-9.0g·cm-2·y-1. These values were much lower than the estimated average SFs (15.2-53.8g·cm-2·y-1), indicating sediment resuspension plays an important role. On a decadal time scale, conventional 210Pb sediment dating models did not allow any estimation of SARs in the Tema Harbour. Thus, the 210Pb-based TERESA model was applied to depict a reliable scenario for sedimentation with time-averaged SARs in the range of 1.4-3.0g·cm-2·y-1 and fluxes of matter contributed by the marine inflow and local sources. Sediment accretion rates of 1.7-3cm·y-1 were also inferred, which may pose a moderate problem of sustainability for the Tema Harbour. This study reveals how the geochemical behaviour of different radionuclides with Gamma spectrometry in the marine environment can be used to obtain reliable information on the complex dynamics of Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM), even in a very disturbed and anthropic environment as a coastal harbour area where (1) conventional 210Pb-based dating methods fail and (2) the use of sediment traps and 234Th and 7Be profiles in sediment cores show serious constraints.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin O Botwe
- IHE-DELFT Institute for Water Education, PO Box 3015, 2601 DA Delft, The Netherlands; University of Ghana, Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, PO Box LG 99, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - José M Abril
- Departamento de Física Aplicada I, ETSIA Universidad de Sevilla, Carretera de Utrera km 1, D.P., 41013 Seville, Spain
| | - Antonio Schirone
- ENEA, Marine Environment Research Centre, P.O. Box 224, I-19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Mattia Barsanti
- ENEA, Marine Environment Research Centre, P.O. Box 224, I-19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Ivana Delbono
- ENEA, Marine Environment Research Centre, P.O. Box 224, I-19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Roberta Delfanti
- ENEA, Marine Environment Research Centre, P.O. Box 224, I-19100 La Spezia, Italy
| | - Elvis Nyarko
- University of Ghana, Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, PO Box LG 99, Legon, Accra, Ghana
| | - Piet N L Lens
- IHE-DELFT Institute for Water Education, PO Box 3015, 2601 DA Delft, The Netherlands
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21
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Klubi E, Abril JM, Nyarko E, Laissaoui A, Benmansour M. Radioecological assessment and radiometric dating of sediment cores from dynamic sedimentary systems of Pra and Volta estuaries (Ghana) along the Equatorial Atlantic. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RADIOACTIVITY 2017; 178-179:116-126. [PMID: 28818644 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2017.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The Volta and Pra estuaries (Ghana, West Africa) are dynamical sedimentary systems whose natural equilibrium is being affected by anthropogenic activities. This paper reports depth-distributions of 210Pb, 226Ra, 234Th, 40K, 228Ra and 137Cs for two sediment cores from these estuaries. Bulk densities were not steady-state and well correlated with 40K (p < 0.00005). Unsupported 210Pb profiles were incomplete, non-monotonic and showed large fluctuations. The assumptions involved in the common 210Pb-based dating models were not meet in these dynamical scenarios, and the use of 137Cs as a time-marker is difficult in Equatorial and South-Hemisphere countries due to its low fallout rates. Chronologies have been solved with the new 210Pb-based TERESA model, which operates with varying but statistically correlated fluxes and sediment accumulation rates (SAR). The core from the Volta reflects the conditions prevailing after the construction of the Akosombo Dam, with a mean SAR of 1.05 ± 0.03 g cm-2·y-1, while a higher value of 2.73 ± 0.06 g cm-2·y-1 was found in the Pra, affected by intense gold mining activities along its course. Radiological and radioecological assessments have been conducted by applying the UNSCEAR protocols and the ERICA model, respectively. The measured radionuclide concentrations do not pose any significant risk for the environment and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Klubi
- Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Spain
| | - J M Abril
- Departamento de Física Aplicada I, ETSIA, Universidad de Sevilla, Spain.
| | - E Nyarko
- Department of Marine and Fisheries Sciences, University of Ghana, Legon, Spain
| | - A Laissaoui
- Centre National des I'Energie, des Sciences et des Techniques Nucleaires-CNESTEN, Rabat, Morocco
| | - M Benmansour
- Centre National des I'Energie, des Sciences et des Techniques Nucleaires-CNESTEN, Rabat, Morocco
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