Estimation of soil-to-plant transfer factor across six local government areas of Kwara state, Nigeria

Transfer factors (TFs) are among the necessary parameter values for the mathematical modeling of radiological pollution's environmental impact. In this study, U-238, Th-232, and K-40 activity concentrations and TFs were estimated in 48 soil and plant samples through gamma-ray spectrometry NaI(Tl) in six selected areas of local governments in Kwara State, Nigeria. The findings revealed that the soil and plant samples' U-238 and Th-232 activity concentrations were within the radiological safety limits. The TFs of soil to plant fell within the worldwide ranges. A set of statistical tests were applied to verify the validity of the data, such as descriptive analysis, the analysis of variance (ANOVA) test, frequency distribution, and Spearman's correlation. The study reveals a skewed distribution in data. Spearman correlation coefficient analysis indicates a moderately negative correlation between U-238, Th-232, and K-40's activity concentrations and their respective TFs (TFU, TFTh, and TFK). In terms of future research in the study area, it is hoped that the data from this study will contribute to improved scientific knowledge.