Measurement of Radioactivity in the Granites of Pakistan: A Review

Abstract All human beings are exposed to primordial radiation. The main source of primordial radiation has been naturally radioactive building materials. In Pakistan, among building materials, granites are most commonly used. This paper reviews the previous studies conducted for the estimation of natural radioactivity of granites from Rustam-Koga, Shewa-Shahbazgarhi, Bunair, Mansehra, and Nagarparkar. The techniques used for these studies include gamma spectrometry and field surveys. To assess the radiation hazards associated with granites of Pakistan, primordial radionuclides and corresponding radiation hazards have been estimated. Most of these granites are found to be safe except Rustam-Koga granite, which presents high excess lifetime cancer risk.

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