GIS Approach to Radioactive Contamination Around Seyitömer Thermic Powerhouse

Researching radiometric elements such as uranium(U), thorium(Th), potassium’s(K) and their decay products distribution in nature; are an important subject to protect environment. Around the lignite-fired thermic powerhouse, Seyitömer settlement regions pollution was studied on account of radionuclide element distribution. Samples were taken from an area of 25 km2 in the vicinity of Seyitömer Thermic Powerhouse. Alpha, beta activity levels of soil and rock samples were measured with Handecount scintillation device. U, Th, K element concentrations of elements were analyzed by means of Spectro X-LAB 2000 PED X-LAB 2000 PED XRF device. U, Th and K are known as main alpha and beta sources in nature. Distribution of radioactive element concentrations was analyzed and mapped using Geostatistical Tools of ArcGIS software. Risky element’s intensity maps were prepared; risky areas were also determined with intensity distribution maps. For evaluation of region; alpha, beta activities were compared with natural radioactive sources U, Th, K. Thus side affects of Seyitömer Thermic Powerhouse ashes as regards of radioactive ingredients were investigated.