Assessment of Radioactive Contamination in Groundwater Sources: A Comprehensive Study on Sources, Transport Mechanisms, and Remediation Strategy

Eng. Sultan Ghadeer Al Ghadeer
Project manager
Saudi
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Keyword: Contaminant Transport Modeling, reverse osmosis, groundwater, radioactive, disposal.

Abstract:

This study employs qualitative methodology, utilizing both secondary and primary data collection techniques to investigate radioactive contamination in Saudi Arabia's groundwater sources. Secondary data, encompassing academic studies, government reports, and international databases, provide a comprehensive understanding of existing contamination levels and trends in the Kingdom. Moreover  primary data from field surveys across the country enhances this understanding by evaluating contamination levels in 500 wells distributed across five distinct regions.
Academic studies revealed radionuclide concentrations below WHO's recommended limits in Jazan Province and highlighted the necessity of continuous monitoring due to uranium deposits. Additionally, Contaminant Transport Modeling (CTM) research trends showed an upsurge, delineating pivotal contributors and key focus areas for future studies.
Publicly available data sources, including reports from government bodies and environmental organizations, indicated generally compliant contamination levels across Saudi Arabia, with exceptions in specific regions hosting uranium deposits. Moreover, research studies substantiated localized contamination exceeding safe limits, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and remediation strategies.
Primary data collection highlighted widespread radioactive contamination, with approximately 20% of samples exceeding WHO guidelines for gross alpha and beta activity and 10% surpassing limits for radium-226. Furthermore radon-222 levels, though generally below guidelines, showed elevations in certain areas.
Identified sources of contamination encompass naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMs), industrial activities and improper waste disposal. Mechanisms of contamination transport, including advection, diffusion, and sorption within groundwater, were delineated. Treatment strategies such as ion exchange, reverse osmosis, and aeration were proposed to mitigate radioactive contaminants.
In summary, this study emphasizes the significant issue of radioactive contamination in Saudi Arabian groundwater, highlighting the need for continual monitoring, a comprehensive understanding of contamination sources and transport mechanisms, and the implementation of effective treatment strategies to safeguard public health and the environment.