Determination of uranium and thorium in water for human consumption in the county of Angra dos Reis

Studies indicate that the presence of uranium and thorium radionuclides in the environment are of great importance in monitoring radiation levels. Humans can have a direct or indirect exposure. The radiological impact for the members of the population living in Angra dos Reis - RJ was evaluated using environmental monitoring data of uranium and thorium in water for human consumption of the county of Angra dos Reis. Monitoring data showed concentrations much lower than the guidelines based on the maximum permitted value of uranium in waters for consumption established by Ministry of Health and CONAMA. Thorium is the most significant radionuclide, however it is important to note that for a dose calculation several radionuclides must be taken into account, but for this work only U-238 and Th-232 were considered. The public that lives in the county of Angra dos Reis is not exposed to the radiation that would result in a radiological impact. (author)