VISAKHAPATNAM: GITAM University has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) to monitor gamma radiation in the states of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana as part of the Nationwide Environmental Gamma Radiation Monitoring Project. University registrar M Potharaju signed the MoU with BARC Health Safety and Environment (HSE) group director DN Sharma in the presence of vice-chancellor G Subrahmanyam.
As per the MoU, BARC would cooperate with GITAM University’s project team to develop an in-house capability for measurement of Thermo Luminescence Dosimeters (TLD) and to statistically analyse the results from time to time. The TLD is a reliable and inexpensive tool for environmental radiation monitoring. In India, environmental gamma radiation monitoring is being carried out on a quarterly basis using CaSO4:Dy based TLDs. The university research team has identified around 525 locations in 23 districts to arrange TLDs.
As part of the study, the research team would collect the TLDs every three months to analyse the results. The number and locations for soil samples collection will be decided after the first year review of the gamma radiation level data for that region. The soil samples will be subjected to gamma spectrometry analysis for natural radioactivity contents.
BARC experts appreciated GITAM University and showed interest in allocating a few more projects to the varsity in the coming years. GITAM University Institute of Science is responsible for coordinating with the general public for getting necessary details and samples for the project.
Vice-chancellor G Subrahmanyam hoped that the project would bring out the best research qualities of the faculty and enhance the quality of research in the region.