Estimation of doses due to background radiation using SSNTD registration method in the MBT Region of Garhwal Himalaya Region in Uttarakhand

The present study conducts a preliminary experimental study to estimate equilibrium factor using radon, thoron and their decay products in the Main Boundary Thrust region Dehradun District of Garhwal Himalaya. Solid state nuclear track detectors (SSNTDs) based LR-115 detectors have been widely used for time integrated measurement due to their cost effectiveness, portability and easy-to-use feature. Pin-hole based single entry twin cup dosimeter and direct progeny sensor techniques have been utilized for present study. The yearly study was conducted in 4 different seasons (summer, rainy, winter and autumn) and therefore the exposed LR-115 films were etched and the developed tracks were converted into concentration using particular conversation factors. The study was performed in the Main Boundary Thrust region of Garhwal Himalaya which is one of the most active Intra-continental ranges in the world. Because of its thrust/fault zone, the emission of radon is larger as compared to the other techtonic regions. Therefore, the study is very important in context to the radiological effects due to these radioactive gases. The results and implication will be discussed later in the presentation. (author)