Journal Article

Radon Concentration Analysis of Borehole and Well Water Sources in Lapai, Using Liquid Scintillation Counter

Abstract

Liquid Scintillation Counter was used to analyse water samples collected from Lapai metropolis, to determine the concentrations of radon-222. The result obtained showed that there was radon gas in all of the water samples. The mean concentration of the gas in borehole water was 14.51Bq/L, while that of well water was 14.30Bq/L. One sample suspected to contain high quantity uranium gave the highest value of radon gas, 18.75 Bq/L. This is not safe for drinking. The world average for radon concentration in water is 10 Bq/L. One sample had value below this, while all other are higher. The values are also above Maximum Concentration Limit of 11.1 Bq/L, and hence, were considered not safe for drinking. The average annual effective dose calculated was 2.83mSv/a. This is above maximum permissible level for non-occupational public exposure and therefore water in the area should not be consumed continuously for a long time to avoid stochastic effect of radiation.

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