Gross Alpha and Gross Beta Radioactivity in Commercial Bottled Water Sold in Minna, Niger State

Abstract

Ten samples of commercial bottled water sold and consumed in Minna town were selected and assessed for their gross alpha and gross beta radioactivity. The analysis was done using the Eurisis system-eight-channel-gas-filled proportional counter at the Centre for Energy Research and Training (CERT), Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State. The results obtained ranged between 0.0031±0.0004 – 0.21±0.0002 Bq/l for gross alpha, while the gross beta activity concentration ranged between 0.0097±0.003 – 0.2±0.0003 Bq/l. the overall results show that the natural radioactivity of commercial bottled water consumed in Minna town is far below the practical screening levels recommended by the World Health Organization for good water quality and therefore, fit for human consumption and other domestic activities.