New Review Highlights the Role of Radionuclides and Gamma-ray Spectrometry in Geoscience Research

Geochemical analysis techniques have evolved in the earth sciences as the technology has improved. A recent review article published in the Journal of Geography and Cartography explores this historical progression, touching upon the ways that analytical techniques, including X-ray fluorescence (XRF), has advanced the field (1).

This study, led by Mohamed H. Fathy of Suez University and his team, comprised of researchers from Suez University and Vietnam National University shed light on the importance of naturally occurring radionuclides and advanced geochemical analysis techniques in the field of earth sciences (1).

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The review focuses on naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM) and categorizes them into two distinct groups: primordial and cosmogenic radionuclides. NORMs are found in the environment and contains uranium, thorium, and potassium (2). Primordial radionuclides originate from the Earth’s crust, while cosmogenic radionuclides come from outer space, such as the sun and cosmic radiation (1,2). These materials are important in the study of Earth's history and environmental monitoring.

Fathy’s review highlights the growing use of gamma-ray spectrometry, a powerful tool for detecting naturally occurring radioactive materials in various applications across earth sciences. Its primary focus is on quantifying uranium, thorium, and potassium content in rocks and soils (1). These elements serve as key indicators in understanding non-radioactive processes and the formation of NORM (1).

Along with gamma-ray spectrometry, the study discusses the role of XRF spectroscopy in earth sciences. According to the authors, XRF spectroscopy has long been a cornerstone in the analysis of solid materials (1). Its precision in identifying both major and trace elements in geological samples makes it an invaluable tool for geochemists and earth scientists (1). XRF spectroscopy is especially useful in determining the major constituents of silicate and other rock types.

Continuing the discussion of analytical techniques, the research team then turned to the impact of atomic spectroscopy techniques in modern geology. Many of these atomic spectroscopic techniques, the authors mentioned, were pioneered by geochemists before they became commercially available (1).

Another key area of the review is the use of mass spectrometry (MS) and its increasing significance in geosciences. MS allows for the precise analysis of isotopic compositions, enabling researchers to better understand the ages and formation processes of rocks and minerals (1,3). The researchers discussed several state-of-the-art MS procedures in their article, offering insights into how these techniques can be applied to various aspects of geoscience research (1).

Although Fathy’s review provides an in-depth look into existing methods, it also identifies gaps and challenges facing the field of geochemical analysis. For example, while XRF spectroscopy remains a robust technique, its limitations in detecting very low concentrations of certain elements pose a challenge for geoscientists (1). Future advancements, as outlined by the researchers in their study, may lie in developing more sensitive techniques capable of analyzing even trace quantities of elements.

Moreover, the study touches upon the broader implications of geochemical analysis for environmental monitoring. As naturally occurring radioactive materials can impact human health and environmental safety, understanding their distribution and concentration in soil and rock is crucial for both ecological assessments and public health (1).

The paper concludes with a forward-looking perspective, calling for further research and innovation in analytical technologies. As earth sciences continue to evolve, the need for more accurate and efficient methods of detecting and analyzing radioactive materials will become even more critical (1).

References

1. Fathy, M. H.; Shaban, F.; Fawzy, T. M.; et al. Spectroscopic Techniques for Detecting Naturally Occurring Radioactive Nuclides in Geology and Water: A Comprehensive Review and Health Implications. J. Geo. Cart. 2024, 7 (2), 6909. https://systems.enpress-publisher.com/index.php/JGC/article/view/6909
2. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) Disposal. Texas.gov. Available at: https://www.tceq.texas.gov/permitting/radmat/uranium/norm.html (accessed 2024-09-11).
3. Broad Institute, What is Mass Spectrometry? Broad Institute. Available at: https://www.broadinstitute.org/technology-areas/what-mass-spectrometry (accessed 2024-09-11).