The spatiotemporal variation, background, and baseline activities of radionuclides in the soil of Aragats Massif (Armenia).

The present study was performed to reveal the distribution patterns and spatiotemporal changes of radionuclides in the soil of the highest mountain of Armenia: Aragats Massif. In this regard, two surveys were implemented in 2016-2018 and 2021 with an altitudinal sampling strategy. The activities of radionuclides were determined by gamma spectrometry system with HPGe detector (CANBERRA).

Identification of radionuclides' altitudinal distribution In soil and mosses In highlands of Armenia.

The present study was conducted in mountain regions of Armenia with the aim to assess the activity concentrations of natural K-40 and artificial Cs-137 in soil and mosses and reveal the distribution similarities and differences. Most widespread moss species and surface soils were sampled concurrently from eight mountain ridges and massifs by different altitudinal belts. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences and opposite characteristics for K-40 and Cs-137.

Natural radioactivity in urban soils of mining centers in Armenia: Dose rate and risk assessment.

Soil radioactivity levels, dose rate and radiological health risk were assessed in metal mining centers of Armenia, at the towns of Kapan and Kajaran. Archive soil samples of the multipurpose soil surveys implemented in Kapan and Kajaran were used for estimation of total alpha and total beta activity levels using gas-less iMatic™ alpha/beta cօunting system (Canberra). Ten representative soil samples per town were randomly selected from different urban zones for naturally occurring radionuclide measurements (238U, 232Th, 40 K) using high purity germanium detector.