Prevalence of radon and metals in natural springs in the Sokobanja area

Abstract

In this study, radon concentrations in natural springs were measured at 9 locations in the area of Sokobanja, using a RAD-7 radon monitoring system (DURRIDGE Co., USA). The average value of radon concentration was 19.6 Bq/l. Annual effective doses due to ingestion and inhalation of radon in water were calculated. Concentrations of metals were measured using the ICP OES technique by EPA 200.7:1994 method and their mean values were: Ca - 80.8 mg/l, Na - 8.7 mg/l, Mg - 8.6 mg/l, K - 1.8 mg/l and Pb - 0.002 mg/l. Based on the results obtained in the study and the reference levels recommended for the parameters under consideration, water from Sokobanja natural sources can be considered safe for drinking.