Distribution of natural radionuclides in the soils on the territory of the New Moscow

Abstract

The paper is devoted to the question of natural radionuclides (40K, 238U, 232Th) distribution in the soils on the territory of New Moscow. Based on the processing of the results of aero-gamma-spectrometry and analysis of extensive cartographic material (geological, soil, neotectonic maps, satellite data SRTM), the distribution of these radionuclides within the area under consideration has been estimated. The areas with elevated values of radionuclides relative to regional background values characteristic for the territory of the European part of Russia have been identified. These areas are considered as potentially dangerous for the environment and human health. Using GIS-technology has allowed determining probable anthropogenic and natural causes of the obtained distribution. Elevated contents of radionuclide 40K (up to 2,3%) coincide with the location of agricultural land and farms and, most likely, are associated with excessive mineral fertilization. The maximum contents of the radionuclide 238U (up to 2•10-4%) are localized at the intersection of the neotectonic fault and river valleys. High concentrations of radionuclide 232Th (up to 11,9•10-4%) are concentrated at the sites of development of large cracks and neotectonic fault, determined by authors as a result of relief digital model designing, and most likely, are due to natural causes (the composition of the initial rocks – substrate).