Gamma radiation and geological objects

Abstract

The present work attempts a review of the relations between gamma radiation and geological objects (including under this term terrains and products extracted from them, such as building materials). Geological objects can be sources of natural gamma radiation due to the presence, mainly, of uranium, thorium and potassium radionuclides. This review will be developed around two main perspectives: - Gamma radiation as a tool for the study of geological objects (including, geochemistry, surveying and dating); - Hazards related to gamma radiation from geologic objects, focusing especially geological materials used in indoor spaces but considering also terrains.