Radiological and radioecological risk assessment around the West Delta fossil-fuel power station in Egypt

There are serious ecological and radiological risks associated with the release and buildup of man-made and natural radionuclides. These risks are particularly relevant for fossil fuel power plants located in residential and agricultural areas. High-purity germanium (HPGe) detectors were employed to analyze environmental samples, including soil, water, and plants collected around the West Delta fossil fuel power station in Egypt. The activity levels of both man-made and naturally occurring radionuclides, such as ²²⁶Ra, ²²⁸Ra, and⁴⁰K, were measured, and the corresponding ecological and radiological hazards were assessed using several radiological hazard indices. The findings showed elevated concentrations of ²²⁶Ra, ²²⁸Ra, and⁴⁰K specifically in agricultural areas near the power station, with some values exceeding internationally recommended guideline values. The calculated radioecological indicators highlight potential long-term exposure risks for nearby populations and ecosystems. These results indicate the need for targeted monitoring and site-specific mitigation measures in the most impacted areas. while providing essential baseline data for future environmental monitoring. This study provides the first comprehensive radiological and radioecological assessment around the West Delta power station, offering new baseline data for environmental monitoring and risk management.