Natural radioactivity from non-nuclear power generation power industries: regulatory control of naturally occurring radioactive material (NORM) for environmental sustainability

Coal is a widely used mineral and contains almost all elements which include Naturally Occurring Radioactive Material (NORM) from natural origin such as from Uranium-238 (238U) and Thorium-232 (232Th) Series along with Potassium-40 (40K). It is the most important source of fossil fuel for non-nuclear power generation industries due to its accessibility and abundance in nature. The burning of coal generates bottom and fly ash which are released into the atmosphere. This process potentially tends to distribute the natural radionuclides originating from coal and enriched in the environment that could contribute to higher external radiation exposure to the population at large. This study aimed to presents an analysis of radioactivity concentration of feed coal burned and ashes from a typical coal fired power plants (CFPP) which is a non-nuclear power generation in Malaysia. The sample was analyzed for two most important natural radionuclides content namely 238U and 232Th by using Instrumental Neutron Activation Analysis (INAA). An extensive investigation of this nature is warranted for radiation protection towards legislative compliance in ensuring safety of the public and workers and the protection of the environment.