Impact of Fertilizer Factory Emissions on Radiological Content of Soil: A Study in Upper Egypt

This study investigated the potential impact of a fertilizer factory in Upper Egypt on the surrounding soil’s radioactivity levels. Gamma-ray spectrometry was used to measure the concentrations of naturally occurring radionuclides (226Ra, 232Th, and 40K) in soil samples collected near the factory. Additionally, radon gas concentrations were measured, and various radiological hazard indices were calculated. Activity concentrations of 238U, 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K varied in the soil samples, ranging from 110.63 to 326.12 Bq/kg for 238U, 172.72 to 582.37 Bq/kg for 226Ra, 25.63 to 189.15 Bq/kg for 232Th, and 252.20 to 713.24 Bq/kg for 40K. Radium equivalent activity, absorbed gamma dose, and external and internal hazard indices exceeded permissible levels. Radon gas concentrations varied from 20.89 to 192.30 Bq/m³, with an average of 104.43 Bq/m³. The calculated effective dose from radon inhalation exceeded the recommended limit. The elevated levels of radioactivity in soil and the high radon gas concentrations suggest a potential health risk for farmers and residents near the fertilizer factory. Further investigations and mitigation strategies may be necessary to ensure the safety of the surrounding population.