Assessment of Activity Concentration of Radionuclides from Farmland Soils around Some Mining Communities of Plateau State using a Bismuth Germanate Oxide (BGO) Spectrometer

Authors

  • Achide Samson Achide
    College of Agriculture Science and Technology Lafia
  • S. D. Songden
    University of Jos
  • W. E. Mangset
    University of Jos

Keywords:

Natural Occurring Radionuclide, Farmland Soil, Mining Areas, Bismuth Germanate Oxide Spectrometer

Abstract

Mining activities can elevate the levels of naturally occurring radionuclides in surrounding agricultural soils, potentially increasing radiological exposure to farmers and food consumers. This study investigated the activity concentrations of 40K, 238U, and 232Th in farmland soils around selected mining communities within the Naraguta Sheet 168 of Plateau State, Nigeria, using a field-portable Bismuth Germanate Oxide (BGO) gamma-ray spectrometer. In situ measurements were conducted at fifty-six sampling points across Shen, Rayfield Resort, Bisichi, and Kuru farmlands, with Kassa serving as a control site. Radiological hazard indices, including absorbed dose rate (Dγ), radium equivalent activity (Raeq), external and internal hazard indices (Hex and Hin), annual effective dose equivalent (AEDE), and gamma activity index (Iγ), were evaluated to assess potential radiation risks. The results revealed notable spatial variations in radionuclide distribution, with 40K dominating across all locations. The greatest mean activity concentrations of 40K (1475.92 Bq kg⁻¹), 238U (24.14 Bq kg⁻¹), and 232Th (8.36 Bq kg⁻¹) were found in Bisichi farmland, with values for 40K surpassing the global average. Based on the result, Bisichi had radiological indices with the gamma activity index (Iγ) above unity and Hex and Hin below unity. This implies that although there is a risk to the gamma activity index (Iγ), there is no risk of occupational exposure to Hex and Hin. Additionally, farmlands in Shen, Rayfield, Kuru, and the control site recorded radionuclide concentration and radiological parameters largely within internationally recommended limits. Although most values remained below permissible exposure thresholds, the radiological indicators in mining-impacted farmlands highlight the need for continuous monitoring and appropriate environmental management strategies.

Dimensions

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Published

2026-01-30

How to Cite

Achide, A. S., Songden, S. D., & Mangset, W. E. (2026). Assessment of Activity Concentration of Radionuclides from Farmland Soils around Some Mining Communities of Plateau State using a Bismuth Germanate Oxide (BGO) Spectrometer. Nigerian Journal of Physics, 35(1), 133-141. https://doi.org/10.62292/njp.v35i1.2026.480

Issue

Vol. 35 No. 1 (2026): Nigerian Journal of Physics - Vol. 35 No. 1

Section

Review Articles
Copyright & Licensing

How to Cite

Achide, A. S., Songden, S. D., & Mangset, W. E. (2026). Assessment of Activity Concentration of Radionuclides from Farmland Soils around Some Mining Communities of Plateau State using a Bismuth Germanate Oxide (BGO) Spectrometer. Nigerian Journal of Physics, 35(1), 133-141. https://doi.org/10.62292/njp.v35i1.2026.480

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