Análisis de la extracción y transformación de granitos como actividad NORM. Diseño de protocolo

Resum

The granites, in general, have high contents of natural radionuclides, and their mining and processing industries can be classified like NORM activities (Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials). Thanks to the industrial importance of the Ornamental Stone Sector in Extremadura, especially granite sector, this industry can be considered as a strategic sector for the Extremadura Region's economy. For these reasons, it is so interesting to analyze the exposure of workers to same routine works, during the extraction and processing of granite, and the radioactive impact that such activities may generate on the environment. This study should be part of the impetus received, last few years, the development of rules and regulations in terms of radiation protection for activities related to the natural component of radioactivity. The main objective of this thesis is the development of a radiation protection protocol, based on analysis of the various routes of worker exposure (external irradiation, inhalation of aerosols and radon exposure) and the waste generated during the routine processes, using like pilot industry all the activities carried out in representative company from Extremadura.