|
Aqmur Saadoun Munshed
Keywords:
Radon-222; Cosmetic Powders; Counterfeit Cosmetics; Iraq; CR-39 Detector; Irradiation Chamber; Natural Radioactivity; NORM.
Abstract:
In the uranium-238 decay sequence, radium-226 decays to generate radon-222, an inert radioactive gas, contributes significantly to natural background radiation. Its alpha emissions are a primary cause of lung cancer, second only to smoking. Although radon studies primarily focus on indoor air, food, and water, cosmetic powders, especially those with mineral-based raw materials, may contain naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORM), posing a potential health risk The purpose of this investigation is to ascertain radon concentrations in imported and counterfeit original cosmetic powders commonly used in Iraq. Samples were exposed for two months in airtight irradiation chambers with solid-state nuclear trace detection chambers (CR-39). The detectors were chemically etched for four hours at 70°C using 6.25 mg of sodium hydroxide. Radon concentrations were computed in Becquerel per cubic meter and alpha particle traces were counted under an optical microscope. This study highlights the need for radiological surveillance in the cosmetics industry, especially for counterfeit items with unregulated manufacture.
|
|
International Journal of Recent Research and Review
ISSN: 2277-8322
Vol. XIX, Issue 1
March 2026
|
PDF View
PUBLISHED
March 2026
ISSUE
Vol. XIX, Issue 1
SECTION
Articles
|
