Soil Radon In The Nigerian Younger Granites

Abstract

Soil radon measurements were carried out to determine the applicability of soil radon surveys in the investigation of uranium in the Nigerian Younger Granites. The study forms part of a series of studies in the investigation of uranium in the Nigerian Younger Granites. Radon activity was measured with a radon detecting system consisting of a cartridge of radon/alpha cards and a card reader. The cards were exposed in holes where soil samples were collected. Results of the measurement indicate a wide variation in soil radon activity over the Nigerian Younger Granite; both inter and intra-soil-types. The results show that soil radon activity mainly controlled by the uranium content of the underlying granites. The results thus suggest that in the Younger Granites, soil radon measurements are better indicators of uranium at depth than the soil uranium content. Findings further suggest that uranium in the soils is young and has not had enough time to attain equilibrium with its daughters. In general, the results suggest that with proper control, soil radon measurements over the Younger Granite can be used for uranium exploration in the region.

Keywords: Radon, younger granite, soil uranium, half-lifeand thorium

Nigerian Journal of Physics Vol. 19 (2) 2007: pp. 213-223