The distribution of U, Th and 226Ra derived from the phosphate fertilizer industries on an estuarine system in Southwest Spain

Abstract

This paper reports an extensive study of the presence of natural radioactivity around a phosphate fertilizer factory complex situated in an estuarine area of southwest Spain. The study has concluded that the wastes from such industries are the cause of the enhancement of natural radioactivity in the immediate environment. Thus, significantly high levels of U- and Th-isotopes and 226Ra are detected in water and sediment samples collected in this area. These conclusions based on the enhanced isotopic concentrations are further supported by the measured different from any observed elsehwere in undisturbed estuaries. These isotope activity ratios appear to be very sensitive indicators of waste disposal practices in such environments.