Petrophysics, gamma radiation

Petrophysics is about the physical properties of rocks. The properties investigated are mainly the rock's magnetism, density and radiometry. The porosity of rocks has also been investigated, but to a very limited extent.

The product Gamma radiation contains data from field measurements at exposed bedrock from observed rocks in Sweden. Gamma radiation is often used to help characterize and classify rocks and for building materials there are norms and guidelines that describe limits for such radiation. Monitoring and knowledge of gamma radiation in rock is important for mining and quarrying, but also for laying up and deposition. Since gamma radiation measurement assesses levels of radioactive isotopes, it provides genetic and time information via the status of the decay chain.

Despite the fact that the ionizing radiation is strongly attenuated by only a few centimeters thick soil cover, and that the majority of the ground surface is also covered by soil material, measurements of gamma radiation on rocks are a powerful tool for interpreting surface-covering radiation measurements. In addition, material transport follows weathering processes, and glaciation epochs follow patterns that are documented and mapped in quaternary geology.