My research on NORM focuses on evaluating radiological hazards within heavy industry, specifically in oil & gas exploration, construction materials, and industrial residues. Currently, I use gamma spectrometry and computational simulations to quantify natural radioactivity and ensure compliance with international safety standards (ICRP/UNSCEAR). Beyond assessments, my active interest is partnering with the industrial sector to develop new technologies and/or solutions for industry.

Building Materials & Construction Quality Control

• Implementation of the Brazilian Hazard Index (IBRA): Development and validation of a new radiological hazard index specifically tailored to the Brazilian construction market. This index provides a more accurate relationship with effective dose than traditional European models  (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radphyschem.2024.112476).

• Gamma spectrometry as a QA tool: Establishing the use of gamma spectrometry for non-destructive quality testing. This research identified "radiological fingerprints" to detect compositional anomalies in mortars, bricks, and sands, ensuring they meet ISO and ABNT NBR standards. [In peer review process]

• Thermophysical characterization & radiogenic heat (RHP): An interdisciplinary study linking nuclear physics with building physics. We quantified how the decay of ²²⁶Ra, ²³²Th, and ⁴⁰K generates heat (Radioactive Heat Production) within walls, affecting the thermal footprint of dwellings [In peer review process]

• Radiometric mapping of structural inputs: Detailed assessment of radiological hazards in cement (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apradiso.2024.111266), sands (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apradiso.2023.111157), and crushed stone (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apradiso.2024.111366), creating a database for the State of Rio de Janeiro.

• Building finishes & coatings: The first study to quantify natural radionuclides in paints, varnishes, sealers, and enamels, highlighting their role as potential radiation diluters or contributors in indoor environments (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radphyschem.2025.112609).

• Ornamental stones & radon exhalation: Comparative analysis between granites and marbles, focusing on radon transport rates and exhalation flow in residential finishes (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apradiso.2023.111020).

Industrial NORM & Environmental Impact

• Integrated risk management model: Development of a management matrix that considers effective dose, usage frequency, and material lifespan. This model introduces a cost-benefit approach (ALARA) to justify the replacement of materials, such as substituting river sand with glass sand to reduce radiological risk.

• Automotive industry & petroleum derivatives: Evaluation of natural radioactivity in automotive lubricants sold in Brazil. Using HPGe spectrometry, this research confirmed that refined engine oils pose no significant radiological risk to consumers or handlers (10.1016/j.jrras.2026.102347). 

• Oil and Gas exploration: Analysis of radionuclides in industrial residues, including oil sludge, drilling fluids, and subsea pipeline incrustations (TENORM), to mitigate environmental impacts.

• Skin absorption & consumer products: Advanced simulation using Monte Carlo (MCNP 6.3) to estimate dose rates from personal care products and cleaning materials that expose the skin by absorption (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.radphyschem.2024.112756).

• Soil Radioactivity: Evaluation of background levels and potential contamination in mining and industrial areas to support land use and safety policies.