Natural and artificial gama radioactivity measurements and construction of radioactivity maps of Mersin

This systematic and comprehensive radio-ecological study was conducted in order to determine the possible effects of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant to be constructed at the Büyükceli district of Mersin province (within the scope of pre-operation surveillance program for nuclear power plants); Natural (226Ra, 232Th and40K) and artificial (137Cs) radionuclide activity concentrations were measured by HPGe gamma spectrometer system in soil, rock and shore sediments, radiological risk parameters were calculated and natural / artificial radionuclide distribution maps reflecting the radiologicalcharacteristics of the region were established. Geochemical analyses (major and trace elements) were carried out by ICP-OES method in the soil / rocks and major / trace element distribution maps reflecting the geological background of the region were prepared. Gross alpha and gross beta activities of fresh water resources were calculated in the study area and radiometric measurements were made in seawater samples taken along Mersin coastal strip. In general, the observed concentrations of natural / artificial radionuclide activity and radiation doses indicate that the region remains in the normal radiation field. The major and trace element concentrations obtained in a similar manner showed no heavy metal pollution in the study area. As a result, this study, in which the radiological and ecological backgroud level of the region is determined (the first study of pre-operational environmental conditions), is important in terms of determining the possible environmental effects of Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant.