Use of LR-115 Detector to Measure Radon Concentrations in Milk and Tea Samples Collected From Misan Markets in Iraq

Introduction: Radioactive material is always present in the environment, and the largest contribution to the inhalation exposure comes from the short half-life decay products of radon. Accordingly, the concentrations of radon were measured in the milk and tea samples collected from Misanmarkets in Iraq. Material and Methods: A total of 20 samples were taken to the laboratory in the School of Physics for sample preparation and then determined using LR-115 detector. Results: The concentrations of radon measured in milk samples were observed to vary from 32.0 to 180.4 Bq/ m3 in Celia 1 and Primer samples, respectively, with a mean value of 109.92Bq/ m3. However, the obtained results of radon concentration in the tea samples were noticed to vary from 40.0 Bq to 220.0 Bq/ m3 in aeroplane and appeared samples, respectively, with a mean value of 158.64Bq/ m3. The radon concentration in the tea samples was higher than that in the milk samples. The result showed the radon concentration varied according to different kinds of samples depending on the source of samples. Conclusion: The concentrations were below than the action levels of 200-600 Bq/ m3 as recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection. According to the results, the collected samples did not pose any major threats.

Keywords:

Iraq , LR-115 detector , Milk , Misan Markets , Radon , Tea