Study Shows Gravel Use for Construction in Malaysia has High Level of Ionizing Radiation
Figure 1. Type of Gravel used for Construction in Malaysia
A recent study published in the Journal of Advanced Research in Applied Sciences and Engineering Technology has raised concerns about the levels of naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs) in building materials used in Malaysia. The study, conducted by researchers from Universiti Teknologi MARA, focused on the radiological assessment of various building materials commonly used in construction.
The study found that while most building materials had acceptable levels of radiation, gravel samples showed a significantly higher concentration of thorium (232Th), exceeding the safe limit for external hazard index. This finding is particularly concerning as gravel is a widely used material in construction, especially in foundations and concrete mixes.
Table 1. Shows the results of the Radiological Assessment Study in comparison to UNSCEAR 2000 references [1]
What is Gravel and How is it Used in Construction?
Gravel is a loose aggregation of rock fragments, typically ranging in size from 2 to 64 millimetres. It is a naturally occurring material, sourced from quarries, riverbeds, and coastal areas. In construction, gravel is primarily used as an aggregate in concrete, providing bulk, strength, and drainage properties. It is also used in road construction, landscaping, and as a base material for foundations. In house and building construction, gravel is commonly used in concrete for columns and floors. It can even be found in walls, especially in high-rise apartments where faster construction is needed.
The Importance of Indoor Ionizing Radiation Monitoring
The study's findings highlight the importance of indoor ionizing radiation monitoring, especially in buildings constructed with materials like gravel that may contain elevated levels of NORMs. Prolonged exposure to ionizing radiation can have adverse health effects, increasing the risk of various cancers and other health problems.
Indoor ionizing radiation monitoring can help identify potential radiation hazards within buildings, allowing for timely mitigation measures to be taken. This is particularly important in areas where building materials with high NORM levels are prevalent.
Figure 2. Mixtures of Gravel and Cement to form Building Concrete Slab
Recommendations
The study emphasizes the need for greater awareness and stricter regulations regarding the use of building materials with high NORM content.
Furthermore, referring to this study it will be beneficial that building owners and occupants consider conducting indoor ionizing radiation monitoring to assess the levels of radiation within their buildings. This can help identify potential radiation hazards and inform decisions about mitigation measures, such as improved ventilation or shielding.
In conclusion, the findings of this study underscore the importance of indoor ionizing radiation monitoring to ensure a safe and healthy indoor environment. By taking proactive measures to identify and mitigate potential radiation hazards, we can protect ourselves and future generations from the harmful effects of ionizing radiation.
Reference:
[1] Ismail, N. I., Yunus, S. M., Ariffin, N. A. N., Saipuddin, S. F., & Rahman, A. T. A. (2024). Radiological assessment of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORMS) in selected building materials. Journal of Advanced Research in Applied Sciences and Engineering Technology, 38(1), 203-209.