Distribution of some natural and anthropogenic radionuclides in Sudanese harbour sediments

The distribution of some natural and anthropogenic radionuclides (Ra-226, Ra-228, Po-210, K-40, Cs-137) in surface marine sediments from the harbours at Port Sudan and Sawakin on the Sudanese coast of the Red Sea has been investigated using alpha-spectrometry and direct high-resolution gamma-spectrometry. The prime aims were to assess the levels of radioactivity and the influence of factors such as dredging and the organic matter content of the sediments on the distribution pattern of the radionuclides. The results have been evaluated and the levels indicate the absence of any possible enhancement by anthropogenic influx from the hinterland. The spatial distribution pattern is more heterogeneous in Sawakin harbour where some parts have recently been dredged and the sludge is removed to maintain the required depth. The data also show an insignificant relationship between the activity concentrations of all the radionuclides and the content of organic matter in the sediments.