Mapping sediment
Mapping gamma radiation is a very effective method to determine the texture of sediments. The concentration of natural occurring radionuclides correlates strongly to the concentration of fine material (clay) in sediment. These radionuclides (⁴⁰K, ²³²Th and ²³⁸U) are present in rocks and sediments since the origin of the earth. Most sediments are composed of sand, clay and organic matter. Due to the differences in chemical composition of these minerals, the concentration of radionuclides varies for each fraction. This relation between the concentration of radionuclides and sediments is established by calibration in the laboratory.
Visual overview of mapping sediment