Spatial Risk Indices Distribution via Contamination and Radioactivity of Atshan and Darhib Talc Mines, Arabian Nubian Shield

Abstract

This study assessed the environmental effects and radiation doses associated with talc deposits collected from the Atshan and Darhib regions, South Eastern Desert of Egypt. The geochemical analysis distinguishes Atshan's Ni-Cr-Co-V enrichment from Darhib's Cu-Pb signature, reflecting a strong mafic-ultramafic influence on metal fractionation. Ecological indices identify Ni and Ca as the primary drivers of contamination, causing “Very High” cumulative risk (PERI >1100) specifically at the Atshan site. While non-carcinogenic hazards remain within safe limits, the Total Cancer Risk slightly exceeds the 1 × 10 −4 threshold, indicating a potential threat from carcinogenic metals. These results highlight the urgent need for remediation to alleviate the severe potential environmental and public health impacts linked to these mineralized deposits. The average amounts of 232 Th, 226 Ra, and 40 K in the Atshan and Darhib deposits are 3.59 ± 0.58, 11.1, and 111.74 ± 28.85 Bq/kg, respectively. The reported activity concentrations comply with generally accepted global reporting standards. Between the two studied talc deposits, the northern site (Atshan) exhibits relatively higher activity concentrations of 40 K (av. 119.57 ± 27.67 Bq/kg), 232 Th (av. 3.64 ± 0.51 Bq/kg), and overall contribution (av. 134.3 ± 27.69 Bq/kg), compared to the southern site (Darhib). In connection with such attempts, several radiological criteria have been calculated for these deposits. The fact that these measurements' values are lower than internationally reported averages suggests that the radiation delivered has very little impact.