Some aspects of radiological impact in phosphate fertilizer industry. A case study of Itataia, Ceara State, Brazil

The present study presents severalk aspects related to the phosphate industry from the origin of the raw materials to the final products. Emphasis is given in the approach of problems associated with the radiological impact and inherent risks when non monitorated products are used. Considerations are made on geological, geochemical and radiometrical characteristics of the main world deposits of phosphatic rocks. The critical patways of U-238 and Th-232 radionuclides are analysed from its origin to the final products. World-wide statistical data on several industrial phosphate branches are presented, and suggestions are made to draw attention to governmental organizations on the need for establishing specific technological development programs for the extraction of radionuclides from phosphate industrial products. The Itataia's project of industrial mining and milling, located in the state of Ceara, is focused here in great detail considering that is represents one of the biggest world concentrations of uranium associated with phosphatic rocks. Results from field studies performed in Itataia's mine are presented and analytical results from laboratory studies in samples from Itataia's (CE) and Barreiro's (MG) phosphatic rocks and Guaramicim's (PE) phospholite are also discussed. Finally, the study proposes a series of necessary actions to implement a national environmental monitoring plan i order to minimize the risks due to the radioactivity arising from phosphatic rocks and from derived fertilizers industry. (author). 37 refs., 31 figs., 37 tabs