Re: Radioactivity in soil

[Andrew Karam <karam.1@osu.edu>]

Something else to keep in mind regarding natural radioactivity in soil is
the varying contribution from K-40.  Specifically, illite (a common clay
mineral) contains up to about 5.6% K by weight giving (if I remember
correctly) close to 50 pCi/gm.  This will vary depending on the illite
content of the soil.  This can lead to problems, especially if illite
content changes on-site.  

I collaborated on a project to find a way to determine contributions from
K-40 and radium during a radium remediation.  Anyone interested can contact
me directly for details.

Andrew Karam
Andrew Karam, CHP
University Radiation Safety Officer
The Ohio State University
Telephone: (614) 292-1284
Fax: (614) 292-6404