Experimental and analytic gamma attenuation of natural stones linked to mineralogical content
Radiation Physics and Chemistry, vol.247, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Volume: 247
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1016/j.radphyschem.2026.114018
- Journal Name: Radiation Physics and Chemistry
- Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Compendex, EMBASE, INSPEC, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Engineering Source (EBSCO)
- Keywords: Gamma attenuation, Granite, Mineralogy, Natural stones
- Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
The protection against ionizing radiation in industrial and medical applications is regulated by governmental authorities through specific legislation and guidelines. These measures aim to minimize the deterministic and stochastic effects of radiation exposure. However, no comprehensive radiological protection framework has been established for natural background radiation levels that may contribute to stochastic health risks. In daily life, individuals are continuously exposed to both terrestrial and cosmic sources of natural radiation and live under the persistent risk of its stochastic impacts. Natural stones, such as marble and granite, are extensively employed as construction materials in residential buildings, industrial facilities, and healthcare structures. Despite their widespread usage, the ionizing electromagnetic radiation transmission properties of these materials are often overlooked independent of their application environments. In the contemporary world, the probability of exposure to ionizing radiation has reached levels that warrant serious consideration. It is thus suggested that incorporating the gamma-ray transmission characteristics of construction materials into building material selection processes could contribute to controlling the annual radiation dose received by individuals. A comprehensive understanding of radiation attenuation properties and the accurate calculation of shielding characteristics are crucial for the effective evaluation of radiation shielding materials. In this study, the radiation shielding parameters of selected natural stones were systematically investigated and correlated with their mineralogical compositions, aiming to provide insights for safer and more informed material selection in construction practices.