The natural radioactivity levels and radiation hazard of pumice from the East Mediterranean Region of Turkey

The concentrations of natural radionuclides in 20 pumice samples from the Toprakkale-Osmaniye area were studied using γ-ray spectrometry in order to assess the radioactivity levels and health hazard. The activity concentrations of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K in the pumice samples ranged from 9.44 to 27.31, 12.24 to 25.43 and 289.48 to 673.18 Bq kg−1, respectively. The radionuclide concentrations in pumice samples were matched with typical world values and the radium equivalent activity (Raeq), external (Hex) and internal (Hin) hazard index and representative level index (Iγr) determined. All the calculated values were below the internationally accepted limits and indicate that the Toprakkale-Osmaniye pumice can safely be used in construction.