Evaluation of Natural Radioactivity and Chemical Elements in Soil Fertilized with Phosphate in Delta Egypt

Zaki, Atta H; Shabacy, Ahmed; Khedr, Mohamed; Salah, Faten; Diab, Hnan; Hamouda, Asmaa

doi:10.21608/agro.2025.393452.1722

Evaluation of Natural Radioactivity and Chemical Elements in Soil Fertilized with Phosphate in Delta Egypt

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ egyption atomic Eneregy authority

² Faculty of Postgraduate Studies for Advances Science PSAS, Beni Suef University, Egypt

³ Egyptian Atomic Energy Authority (EAEA), Nuclear and Radiological Safety Research Centre, Egypt

10.21608/agro.2025.393452.1722

Abstract

The application of phosphate fertilizers in agricultural soils can lead to the accumulation of natural radionuclides and trace elements, posing potential environmental and health risks this paper aims to determine the natural radioactivity concentrations in soil fertilized with local This study evaluates the natural radioactivity levels (²³⁸U, ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K) and chemical element concentrations in soils fertilized with phosphate in the Delta region of Egypt. Soil samples were collected from cultivated areas with a history of phosphate fertilizer use, and their radiological and geochemical characteristics were analyzed using gamma spectrometry and using activation with the thermal neutrons. The results indicated elevated activity concentrations of ²³⁸U and ²²⁶Ra compared to global averages, attributed to phosphate fertilizer application. Additionally, the study examined the distribution of essential and toxic trace elements (Cd, Pb, As, Zn, Cu) in the soil and their correlation with fertilizer use.The findings highlight the need for monitoring and regulating phosphate fertilizer usage to mitigate radiological and chemical contamination in agricultural soils, ensuring long-term environmental sustainability and public health safety in the region

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