Assessing gamma emitters and ²²²Rn exhalation in Uruguayan building materials: a comprehensive analysis

This study provides the first report on the activity concentrations of gamma emitters (²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K) in building materials marketed and used in Uruguay, as well as their potential for ²²²Rn exhalation. The analyzed materials were categorized based on their use into cements and cementitious mixtures, granites, bricks and concrete blocks, ceramic and porcelain tiles, and gypsum and fiber cement. Granites were found to have the highest activity concentrations for ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K, whereas gypsum and fiber cement exhibited the lowest activity concentrations for all three radionuclides. Additionally, granites have the highest potential for ²²²Rn exhalation and radiological indices. Radiological indexes and dose evaluation show that the building materials analyzed present no radiological risk.