NORM estimation in fly ash sample and gypsum samples using gamma ray spectrometer

Fly ash and phospho gypsum are widely used along with cement as construction materials for making roads, embankments etc. The combustion of coal in thermal plants generates large amount of fly ash, bottom ash, copper slag and they are being used in cement industries. Phospho gypsum is a byproduct formed during the production of phosphoric acid. When the cement mixture of this kind is used in house construction, it is necessary to measure the natural radioactivity present in these samples since they contribute exposure to public residing in these buildings. Fly ash samples are received from Hi-Tech fly ash, Tuticorin, and gypsum samples are received from SPIC Pvt. Ltd, Tuticorin. Radium equivalent activity (Ra_eqv), Activity utilization Index (I), external hazard index (H_ex and Internal radiation hazard index (H_in) are calculated to assess the radiation hazard. (author)