Study of Gross Alpha and Gross Beta Activity in Bottled Water in Dhaka City of Bangladesh

Abstract

Gross alpha and gross beta particle activity was selected for the screening of radioactive species. The purpose of this study is to determine gross alpha and gross beta activities in bottled water samples. Sixteen different branded bottled water samples were collected from different markets in Dhaka city and analyzed by dual phosphor Zinc Sulphide Scintillation Detector, ZnS(Ag) for the measurement of gross alpha and gross beta activity. The observed gross alpha activity concentration ranged from 0.73 ± 0.02 mBqL⁻¹ to 0.96 ± 0.07 mBqL⁻¹ with an average 0.83 ± 0.057 mBqL⁻¹ while gross beta activity concentration ranged from 65.54 ± 0.98 mBqL⁻¹ to 77.29 ± 2.04 mBqL⁻¹ with an average 71.47 ± 3.44 mBqL⁻¹. The obtained results showed that the average activity concentrations of alpha and beta emitting radionuclides in the bottled water samples did not exceed WHO recommended limits and The Environmental Conversation Rule of Bangladesh, 1997. The results of gross alpha and gross beta activities in bottled water were compared with the corresponding global values. To ensure the safe level of radioactivity in drinking water, however, periodic monitoring of water quality for compliance is necessary. This study will help to prepare baseline data for gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity in bottled water that can be used to evaluate the possible changes and the radiological impact on the public health in future.