Study of Radon and Radium Concentration in Water Samples in Some Regions of Lebanon

Abstract

This study describes the results of measurements radon (222Rn) and radium (226Ra) concentrations found in sixteen water samples collected from different locations in Lebanon. Measurements were made, using long-term technique for alpha particles emission with solid state nuclear track detector type CR-39. The concentrations of 222Rn ranges from 1.08 Bq /L to 9.32 Bq/ L; while the mean value was 2.50 Bq/ L. All results were below the maximum contaminant level (MCL) for 222Rn in drinking water as reported by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). However, these values were lower than allowed maximum contaminant level (MCL) for 222Rn in drinking water as reported by USA Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) which is about 11.1 Bq/L.Also, 226Ra alone, in one sample have concentration higher than 0.555 Bq/L as normal level for gross alpha. The maximum concentration of radium was found to be 0.561 Bq/ L and the minimum was 0.065 Bq /L with mean value 0.150 Bq/L. For improvement of the social health level, it is essential that to reduce the radon and radium concentrations in the drinking water before using by people.