Uranium and polonium radio-isotopes activities in surface waters of the Upper Moulouya mining districts: Environmental Implications

Abstract

The Upper Moulouya River holds the largest abandoned mining deposits in Morocco that generate significant amounts of heavy metal wastes including  stable and radioactive elements. They represent by far a significant source of pollution threatening the surrounding environment. The purpose of this  study is to assess the contamination levels of 238U, 234U, and 210Po in surface waters crossing the famous mining districts of Zaida, Mibladen, and Aouli,  and eventually identify its sources. Ten sampling sites were carefully selected along the study area. The sampling technique consists to collect 20  liters of water. Samples underwent specific treatments to assess the sought activities of Uranium and Polonium radioisotopes. Results showed that the  surface waters of the Upper Moulouya show variable activity values of Uranium and Polonium radioisotopes from one site to another. The spatial  distribution of these values is defined by the intervention of several factors influencing the mobility of these radionuclides.