Assessment of Natural Radioactivity and Radon Exhalation in Peruvian Gold Mine Tailings to Produce a Geopolymer Cement

Mining generates significant amounts of waste that can represent a source contamination for areas close to the extraction area, generating negative impact both on environment and health people. This study aims evaluate radiological risk derived from exposure natural radionuclides contained in tailings Peruvian gold mines establish whether be used as raw materials building materials. The mine come mining project northern highlands Peru. Radon exhalation was measured using Rad7 closed chamber activity concentration 226Ra, 232Th, 40K radioisotopes by gamma spectrometry NaI 3” × detector. Maximum concentrations 226Ra 232Th were 15.38 Bq kg−1 11.9 kg−1, respectively; meanwhile, ranged 182.7 770.8 kg−1. All below worldwide average except 40K. radon rate varied 2.8 7.2 mBq h−1. index (Iγ), parameters, including Radium equivalent (Raeq), external hazard (Hex), being recommended levels UNSCEAR, ensure safe use these tailing produce geopolymer cement.