Determination of radioactivity levels of salt minerals on the market

Abstract

Human beings have been continuously exposed to natural radioactive rays since their existence in the world. From the end of the 19th century, besides natural sources, mankind has been exposed inevitably to artificial radioactive sources with the development of technology. Radiation has beneficial effects on human beings but also can have harmful consequences if overexposed. Therefore, it is important for both public and governmental institutions to know radioactivity levels, particularly in foodstuffs, for human health. There have been rumours among the public that the level of radioactivity in salt minerals exported from abroad is high. In this study, the radioactivity levels of imported and domestic salts on the market shelves have been determined by using gamma spectrometry units with HPGe detector.