Abstract
The article represents the results of a research in radionuclides concentration in coal and rocks of Kuzbass mines as well as radon concentration in operative mines and mined-out spaces. It is proved that radon concentration in mines is considerably higher than in the atmosphere and it rises drastically in the mined-out spaces. It is found out that radon is carried out from mines by ventilation flows and from open pits, generating anomalous concentrations over self-ignition areas.
Highlights
Coal mining causes carry-over of hazardous gases released from coal and enclosing rocks into the atmosphere
The content of radionuclides in coal and rock of some Kuzbass mines was studied by means of gamma-spectrometric analysis of collected samples
Gamma activity of samples determined the content of the four radionuclides: caesium-137, potassium-40, radium-226, torium-232
Summary
Coal mining causes carry-over of hazardous gases released from coal and enclosing rocks into the atmosphere. The inert gas radon-222 which is produced at its -decay has half-life as long as 91.68 hours. Concentration of natural radionuclides in coal ash can considerably grow compared with initial coal [2]. Radon generated by radium-226 decay in unbroken coal layers and enclosing rocks moves insignificantly in pores and produces new elements during further decay.
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