Specific Activity of Cs-137 in Milk of Semey Region of East Kazakhstan Area

Abstract

Cesium-137 (Cs-137) activity concentration in cow milk samples, collected near the former Semipalatinsk nuclear test site (SNTS) in Kazakhstan were measured. Milk samples were obtained from 7 different locations within 2 administrative regions (Abai and Ayaguz). Abai and Ayaguz regions belong to different zones of radiation risk: zone of maximum radiation risk and zone of heightened radiation risk, respectively. Radionuclide activities concentrations were determined using a gamma-ray spectrometer with pure germanium detector. The highest activity concentration values in milk were found in Karaul of Abai region 8.60±0.16 Bq/l. In Zhidebai, Kaskabulak, Kokbai and Medeu the Cs-137 activity concentration were 5.30±0.21 Bq/l, 4.10±0.12 Bq/l, 7.10±0.22 Bq/l and 3.70±0.14 Bq/l, respectively. In Ayaguz region the average value was 3.60 Bq/L. In this zone, the highest activity concentration was measured in Akshatau 6.60±0.27 Bq/l. In Ayaguz Cs-137 content was lower 2.60±0.09 Bq/l.