Preliminary investigation of natural radioactivity (Gross Alpha/Beta) in rural water supplies of Bagerhat district, Bangladesh

Abstract

This study investigated spatial variations in environmental radioactivity and pH levels in water samples collected across multiple sampling locations. Gross beta radioactivity exhibited significant variability (96.0-127.5 mBq/L), with peak concentrations in samples P1 (127.5 mBq/L) and P4 (117.4 mBq/L), while gross alpha activity showed more consistent values (12.4-17.4 mBq/L). Parallel pH measurements revealed a gradual decrease from slightly alkaline (7.4) to near-neutral conditions (6.6) along the sampling transect. The distinct patterns in beta activity suggest potential localized contamination sources, whereas the stable alpha readings indicate uniform background radiation. The study provides baseline data for assessing environmental health risks and informs future investigations into radioecological dynamics in similar ecosystems.