Soil Gas Radon Research Articles

Assessment of soil gas radon migration and transport through the estimation of radon diffusion length and diffusion coefficient in the soil matrix

Naturally occurring radioactive gas, radon is a decay product of radium present in the soil. Radon flux reaches the atmosphere through exhalation from soil surface. This study aims to estimate the radon diffusion length and diffusion coefficient in soil matrix on the premises of HNB Garhwal University campus at Tehri Garhwal, India. Soil gas radon concentration was measured at different depths (15, 30, 45, 60, 75, and 90 cm) using a Smart RnDuo (Scintillation-detector) at 14 different locations in the university campus. Simultaneous measurement of surface and mass exhalation rates was also carried out for each location. Gamma-ray spectrometry was used to estimate the radium content in soil samples. Results of the present study suggest that soil gas radon concentration increases with increasing sampling depth. The diffusion coefficient and length were calculated using the soil gas radon concentration gradient within the soil matrix. The average value of diffusion length (l) and diffusion coefficient (D) were obtained as, ls = 0.70 ± 0.22 m, Ds = 0.0054 ± 0.0049 m2 sec-1 and la = 0.77 ± 0.63 m, Da = 0.0073 ± 0.014 m2 sec-1 by Fick’s diffusion model and analytic models, respectively.

The correlation between indoor and soil gas radon concentrations in Kiraz district, İzmir.

All humans are exposed to radon, the primary source of natural radiation, which can harm people due to natural processes rather than human activity. Thus, it is of significant importance to determine the levels of radon in indoor, soil gas, water, and outdoors. Radon concentration (CRn) was measured in Kiraz district, İzmir, and the correlation between the indoor and soil gas CRn values was investigated. The indoor CRn values measured in 40 randomly selected dwellings in Kiraz exhibited a wide range from 19.50 ± 2.50 to 204.70 ± 8.00Bqm-3 with an average value of 61.11 ± 4.23Bqm-3. The measured indoor CRn values were compared to the reference levels in the world to help control radon in the dwellings. Indoor CRn values were lower than the ICRP reference level of 300Bqm-3 in all of the dwellings studied. Furthermore, in 34 dwellings (representing 85% of the total number of dwellings studied), indoor CRn values were lower than the WHO reference level of 100Bqm-3. Health hazard indices, namely annual effective dose (AED) and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR), were also calculated for each dwelling and compared with internationally acceptable levels to estimate the risk to human health. The AED values varied from 0.49 ± 0.06 to 5.16 ± 0.20mSv y-1 with an average value of 1.54 ± 0.11mSv y-1, which exceeds the world average of 1.15mSv y-1 as reported by UNSCEAR. The ELCR values ranged from 2.05 ± 0.26 × 10-3 to 21.55 ± 0.84 × 10-3 with an average value of 6.43 ± 0.44 × 10-3, exceeding the world average of 0.29 × 10-3 as reported by UNSCEAR. The soil gas CRn values measured exhibited a wide variation ranging from 129.25 ± 6.38Bqm-3 to 6172.64 ± 44.06Bqm-3 with an average value of 1291.79 ± 18.70Bqm-3. The soil gas CRn values were less than 10,000Bqm-3; hence, the research area is categorized as "low radon risk areas" according to Sweden Criteria, and so no special constructions are required in the studied area. When soil gas CRn values were compared to indoor CRn values, no linear relationship was found between the CRn values. However, a strong positive linear correlation was found between indoor and soil gas CRn values less than 200Bqm-3 and 2500Bqm-3, respectively.

Radon and carbon dioxide emissions from the surface rupture zone produced by the 1920 Haiyuan M8.5 earthquake in Northwest China

A M8.5 earthquake struck the Haiyuan area in 1920 and resulted in a 240-km long surface rupture zone along the Haiyuan fault (HYF). In this study, to determine the spatial relationship between soil gases and fault activity on a regional scale, radon (Rn) and carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in soil gas were measured in situ with a grid spacing of 5 ∼ 10 km along the Haiyuan surface rupture zone (HYSRZ). Ordinary Kriging (OK) and Inverse Distance Weight (IDW) interpolation were used to investigate spatial variations in Rn and CO2 concentrations. Synchronous soil gas anomalies were identified in southern Haiyuan County and at the southern end of the HYSRZ, and were correlated with higher slip rate, larger deformation, and larger degree rupture size than other segments. Moreover, soil gas anomalies were spatially highly coupled with seismically active zones and low b value areas, suggesting that the permeability and porosity of gas emissions are enhanced by higher stress. Two seismic velocity profiles across the gas anomaly area confirmed that low-velocity bodies exist at 0 ∼ 10 km below the surface, as revealed by magnetotelluric (MT) sounding results, indicating that gas emissions are associated with the migration of deep fluids. Our results provide new insight into the source of fluids in the HYSRZ and offer support for the design of a continuous geochemical measurement network in this area.

Efficient Preparation of Poly(allyl diglycol carbonate) (PADC) Nuclear Track Detectors: UV Photopolymerization.

The decay of radon gas in soil and buildings produces alpha radiation, which is the second leading cause of lung cancer in humans. Therefore, by conveniently detecting radon gas in the environment, potential sources of danger can be identified early, and necessary measures can be taken to protect human health. Solid-state nuclear track detectors prepared from polyallyl diglycol carbonate (PADC) resin are the most sensitive detectors for alpha radiation released by radon gas. The traditional method of preparing PADC resin involves free radical thermal polymerization, which suffers from issues such as low polymerization efficiency, long processing time, and the occurrence of defects in the product. In this study, PADC resin was efficiently prepared using a UV initiator. Starting from the polymerization mechanism, experiments were designed using a controlled variable approach, and a rational polymerization apparatus was devised. By comparing the double bond conversion rate, transparency, hardness, and yellowness index of the polymers, the optimal initiator for PADC resin, 2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-1-propanone (1173), was selected. The influence of irradiation intensity, irradiation time, and UV initiator dosage was investigated. The performance of the polymers, including double bond conversion rate, optical properties, dynamic mechanical properties, etching rate, and track detection efficiency, was analyzed. The experimental conditions for preparing PADC resin were optimized: irradiation intensity of 12 mW/cm2, irradiation time of 25 min, and UV initiator dosage of 5 parts. The resulting resin polymer had a double bond conversion rate of 93.2% and a track detection efficiency of 0.714.

Effect of Seasonal Variation and Soil Parameters on Soil-Gas Radon Concentration in Ogbomoso, South Western Nigeria

Radon 222Rn, an inert natural radioactive gas, a daughter product in the 238U natural decay series, a source of alpha radiation. It accounts for about 55% of the total radiation from natural sources. Radon is known for its substantial variations in concentration due to both seasonal changes and variations in soil parameters. Soil, fractures in rocks and water are the main source of radon and they are the routes through which individual is exposed to it, in which this study is aimed at examining the effects of seasonal variation, soil parameters, on soil radon concentration. A total of hundred (100) in-situ soil radon measurements were carried out for both seasons (wet and dry) in Ogbomoso using an active electronic device RAD 7. Soil parameters were measured using a 4-in-1 digital metre. The obtained experimental data were subjected to a statistical tool (SPSS) Version 23, with statistical significance set at p < 0.01. The result showed that the effect of seasonal variation on soil-gas radon concentration was discovered to be maximum during the dry season with the radon concentration of 1900.01 Bq/m3 and minimum during the wet season with the radon concentration of 711.81 Bq/m3.The mean value of radon in soil-gas was found to be 553.48 Bq/m3 and 1366.34 Bq/m3 for wet and dry season respectively. Soil parameters considered in this work have notable influence on soil gas radon concentration in both seasons. Thus, providing valuable insight into the dynamics of radon migration in the soil. The results will help to develop effective mitigation strategies by policies makers and reducing the risk of radon related lung cancer in the study area.

Assessment of Indoor and Soil-Gas Radon Concentration of a Quarry Site in Eiyekorin, Kwara State

The toxic health effect of human exposure to radon gas which is radioactive in nature has attracted extensive research attention worldwide. Since direct experiments on the effect of earthquakes on radon release are difficult to conduct, a possible alternative is to use man-made explosions as an earthquake surrogate and investigate the corresponding effect on radon concentration. This study aims at investigating the soil-gas radon concentration in an active quarry site and areas outside the quarry, and the infiltration of the gas into the indoor environment was measured in order to access the occupational exposure risk. Soil gas radon concentration was taken at 30 random locations within the quarry and areas outside the quarry using RAD7, likewise 10 indoor radon gas in offices and homes were measured using an active radon detector manufactured by Durridge Incorporation in USA and comparative analysis of the difference between the two locations were done. The mean of the soil-gas radon concentration in the quarry site is 24968.84 ± 6913.204Bq/m3 while that of outside the quarry is 9664.67 ± 4992.86 Bq/m3. The result shows higher values of radon-gas concentration in the quarry site compared with area outside the quarry and when compared to the International Commission on Radiation Protection (ICRP) suggested value of radon concentration in soil and sediment, which is in the range of 0.4 to 40 KBqm-3, result shows that most location within the study area are higher than these limits. Also, the radon in air indoor and outdoor was taken at the offices located within the quarry and occupational exposure risk was carried out. The average of radon in air indoor and outdoor was found to be 31.12 Bqm–3 and 10.12 Bqm–3 respectively with higher values found indoor. However, the values are found to be below the recommended value of 300 Bq/m3 by ICRP publication for homes and workplaces.

Lithological Impact on Radon Levels: A Study of Indoor and Soil Gas Radon in the Centre Region of Cameroon

AbstractThe objectives of the current study are to carry out soil gas radon (Rn) measurements, to evaluate the total inhalation effective dose, to determine risk levels over the lithological formations of the study area. The behavior investigation of Rn activity concentration distributions in dwellings and soils, and soil Rn mapping were also conducted. Soil gas Rn measurements were made at 102 sampling points by Markus 10 instrument. This data was combined with previously reported results from 140 indoor Rn RADTRAK dosimeters to determine the total inhalation effective dose and to conduct a statistical analysis. Overall, the Rn activity concentrations in soil and dwellings range from 4 to 66 kBq m−3 and from 15 to 140 Bq m−3, with averages of 31 ± 15 kBq m−3 and 41 ± 24 Bq m−3 respectively. The corresponding total inhalation effective dose ranges from 0.35 to 3.53 mSv y−1, with a mean value of 1.37 ± 0.58 mSv y−1. For soil gas Rn, the chlorite schist lithology showed the highest average concentration level. Which could be justified by the possible presence, within chlorite minerals, highly emitting zones of alpha particles, leading to the formation of radioactive halos. Normal and high‐risk level of Rn were found for about 82% and 11% of the total area surveyed respectively. These findings highlight the need for preventive measure against Rn exposure in homes within the investigated areas. This study contributes valuable insights into Rn distribution patterns and risk assessment, offering a basis for targeted interventions in the region.

Assessment of Radon Potential along Local Fault System in Sofia, Bulgaria (at Specific Test Site)

Environmental spread of radon gas (222Rn) has been intensively investigated in the last few years due to its harmful effects on human health. A concept of radon index is used to characterize the geogenic radon potential of the terrain, as the latter gives the probability of the presence of radon gas concentration in a building, the genesis of which is directly related to the influence of the earth's surface. One of the approaches for quantifying the radon index is based on a multivariate cross-tabulation, which includes two parameters – radon concentration in soil gas and gas permeability of the earth layer (at 80 cm). The geology of the specific site (approx. 350 m2) is characterized by the Pliocene clayey-sandy Formation, covered with Quaternary sediments. From tectonic point of view, the site as a part of Sofia Graben, has being subject of events related mainly with the Late Alpine deformations heading to very complex structures and fault systems. In situ measurements performed in the summer of 2023 at ten distinct points at the surface and 11 distinct points at two meters in depth from the surface vary as follows: from 44.2 to 189.0 kBq/m3 (radon soil gas), from 2.0E-11 to 1.8E-13 m2 (soil gas permeability), and from 0.10 to 0.17 µSv/h (gamma dose rate). Based on that, the radon index of the site is determined from “medium” to “high”, with a predominance of the latter. One of the reasons for the high radon potential is the presence of sub-faults connected with the major Sofia fault system and their influence on the radon concentration. Therefore, in future investigations of the radon index, a very detailed survey of the site's geology is needed in the territory with appearing fault systems. In addition, based on the determination of the radon index, the forthcoming construction activities in such areas will be advised to use preventive measures during the construction of the new building to avoid future radon gas influxes on the premises.

Experience from radon in soil gas comparison measurements held in Czech Republic and in other countries, 1992–2022

Radon 222Rn, an inert natural radioactive gas, a daughter product in the 238U natural decay series, a source of alpha radiation, together with its short-lived decay products is a dominant source of absorbed radiation doses in the population. Rocks and building materials are fundamental sources of radon in dwellings. Elevated indoor radon activity concentration in houses and workplaces, surpassing recommended reference levels, is not desirable. Since radon penetrates into the houses from the geological basement, various technical aids for protection of houses have been developed. Their individual application derives from the radon potential of a building site. Radon risk mapping of building sites became a standard procedure for gauging the local radon potential. Various instruments and techniques of measurements of radon activity concentration in soil gas (Bq/m3) at building sites are available. Since radon in soil gas and radon measurement techniques are affected by several natural and technical conditions, resultant values of radon risk mapping by individual organizations vary, sometimes fundamentally. Radon comparison measurements at selected reference sites are an important tool for single organizations to verify their radon measuring procedures and reliability of their reported results. Based on legislative regulations, comparison measurements at established radon reference sites are a part of the obligatory activities for radon risk mapping at building sites in the Czech Republic. Experience and analyses of 30-year radon in soil gas comparison measurements in the Czech Republic show the dispersion of values reported by participating organizations and indicate that more than 10% of participants do not fulfill the established local criteria. This paper introduces requirements for the establishment of radon reference sites, documents their natural variability, recommends the procedure of radon comparison measurement, and analyses its results. A long-term experience was gained by testing organizations from the Czech Republic (1992–2022) as well as from the international comparison measurements organized in the Czech Republic and in several other countries (2010–2021).

Investigation of the Dominant Direction of the Fault Structure Using the Radon Method at Mt. Pancar Geothermal Field

The Mt. Pancar geothermal field in Bogor, Indonesia, has been surveyed for radon in soil gas. There were 33 measurement points across the survey area that were separated by 100-200 meters. Through the radon method, this study aims to show the direction of the dominant fault structure based on the distribution of radon values in around observation area. The Radon concentration was measured by RAD 7 Electronic Radon Detector Durridge Company. The study showed the dominant structure was directed southwest-northeast, passing through the manifestation of the red crater. The result of radon soil gas survey performed highest radon concentration near the manifestations which was included survey area was about 10047 Bq⁄m^3. The manifestation was predicted to be controlled by the three faults in the Mt. Pancar geothermal field.

Investigation of Radon, Total Electron Content and Linear and Nonlinear Variations of Meteorological Variables Due to Earthquakes: ARIMA and Monte Carlo Modelling

An Integrated Autoregressive Moving Average (ARIMA) - Monte Carlo Simulation (MCS) is proposed to analyze and model the anomalies of atmospheric and ground gases by an earthquake along the North Anatolian Fault Zone (Türkiye). Earthquakes, Soil radon gas and Total Electron Content (TEC) showed simultaneous anomalies. There are positive relationships between these three parameters. Also, positive relations between Rn, meteorology, and atmosphere are detected. The proposed ARIMA model and MCS for the Rn-TEC-Earthquake relationships of the measured data gave statistically significant results. This model and simulation showed statistically significant changes in the effects of microearthquakes, which are more difficult to detect than large earthquakes, especially on the ionospheric TEC.

Baseline Study and Statistical Analysis of Natural Radioactivity, Radon, and Soil Properties in Proposed Underground Mine in Prestea Huni-Valley Municipality of Western Region, Ghana

The study aims to establish a natural radioactivity and radon gas baseline for the proposed concession for an underground gold mine in the Bonteboni within the Prestea Hun-Valley Municipality of the Western Region, Ghana. The CR-39 and HPGe detectors were used to determine radon gas and 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K concentrations with sieving and weighing methods to determine the porosity and composition of soils, in sixty (60) soil samples and one hundred twenty (120) dwellings. The studied data for dwellings were found to range from 82.9 to 165.8 Bq/m3 (131.0 ± 12.7 Bq/m3). The radionuclides of 226Ra, 232Th, and 40K and soil radon gas were in the range of 12.5–35.9 Bq/kg (23.3 ± 0.9 Bq/kg), 35.8–134.7 Bq/kg (83.2 ± 3.7 Bq/kg), 30.4–324.6 Bq/kg (143.2 ± 11.3 Bq/kg) and 8.0–19.3 (14.7 ± 0.4 µBqm−2 h−1), respectively. Indoor radon gas was found in increasing order in dwelling types as clay > sandcrete > wooden while the natural radionuclides were also found to follow the order 40K > 232Th > 226Ra. Sixty-three dwellings obtained indoor radon levels above the World Health Organization’s recommended limit of 100 Bq/m3. Fifteen locations had levels of the radionuclides 226Ra and 232Th exceeding guidelines set by the UNSCEAR. The effective doses due to natural radionuclides were found to be less than 1 mSv/yr with thirty-five locations having values greater than the ICRP’s lower recommended limit of 3 mSv/yr. The ventilation systems were found to have a greater influence on the indoor radon concentration in different dwellings. The linkage and composition analysis between the porosity and soil particles indicated a direct impact on natural radionuclides and radon levels, thereby influencing the amount of radiation exposure to the public and environment.

Vertical Light Non-Aqueous Phase Liquid (LNAPL) distribution by Rn prospecting in monitoring wells.

In the frame of a collaboration between the Italian National Research Council (CNR) and Mares s.r.l., a study, about the possibility of determining radon vertical distribution at different soil depths in order to trace light non-aqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) contaminations, was developed. The radon deficit technique, based on the preferential solubility of soil gas radon into non-polar fluids, such as refined hydrocarbons, has been investigated by various theoretical and applied research so far. According to international scientific literature, radon deficit can be used both for geochemical prospection of the spatial irregular NAPL dispersion and for monitoring of remediation activities. Even though it is well known that this type of pollutants can be distributed along the vertical soil profile-firstly due to their density in comparison to water density, and secondly due to fluctuations of shallow aquifers, soil pore size, aging of contamination, and so on-the vertical localization of the plume still represents a scientific challenge. In this article, a method to determine the radon vertical profile is tested and applied to assess the potential use of the radon deficit technique in the vertical detection of pollutant presence for the first time in a fuelling station. Two LNAPL-contaminated sites were selected for a pilot test. Experimental findings seem to support the use of vertical radon geochemical prospection to delimit the depth range of a LNAPL pollution directly. Systematic data collection and modeling may lead to a 3D reconstruction of the dispersion of contaminant in different soil levels.

Soil and air radon/thoron exhalation rates and radon activity concentrations in the vicinity of Lake Monoun, West region of Cameroon

ABSTRACTOne crucial element to determine the radon amount in the environment is the rate at which radon is exhaled from the subsurface. To assess the radon and thoron potential exhalation in the vicinity of Monoun Lake in the West Region of Cameroon, 28 soil samples were collected around the lake. Radon activity concentration in soil gas and air and the related risk to radon inhalation were evaluated. Radon and thoron exhalation rates, mass exhalation rates, and radon soil gas activity concentrations were derived from a mathematical model as a function of radium content and soil parameters. Radium activity concentrations were estimated using a gamma-ray spectrometry technique with a High Purity Germanium detector (HPGe). The average radon exhalation rate, thoron exhalation rate, radon mass exhalation rate, and thoron mass exhalation rate were found to be 22.7 mBq.m−2.s−1, 5348 mBq.m−2.s−1, 0.018 mBq.kg−1.s−1, and 321 mBq.kg−1.s−1, respectively. The registered radon and thoron exhalation rates were above the world average values of 16 Bq.m−2.s−1 and 1000 Bq.m−2.s−1 published by UNSCEAR, respectively. The calculated thoron exhalation in the study area was about 75.3 times higher than that of radon, which suggests probably more exposure to thoron gas than the radon in the area, despite its shorter half-life. A good positive correlation was found between radon and thoron exhalation rates. The obtained average values of radon activity concentrations in air and annual effective dose were above the world average values of 10 Bq.m−3 and 0.095 mSv published by UNSCEAR, but still below the threshold values of 148 Bq.m−3 and 1.4 mSv set as action levels by USEPA, respectively.

Assessment of Radiological Risks due to Indoor Radon, Thoron and Progeny, and Soil Gas Radon in Thorium-Bearing Areas of the Centre and South Regions of Cameroon

Indoor radon, thoron and thoron progeny concentrations, along with the equilibrium factor for thoron progeny and soil gas radon concentrations, have been measured to assess radiological risks in the centre and south regions of Cameroon. Indoor radon and thoron concentrations were estimated using radon–thoron discriminative detectors (RADUET), while thoron progeny monitors measured the equilibrium equivalent thoron concentration (EETC). Radon concentrations in the soil were determined using a MARKUS 10 detector. It was found that radon, thoron and thoron progeny concentrations range between 19 and 62 Bq m−3, 10 and 394 Bq m−3 and 0.05 and 21.8 Bq m−3, with geometric means of 32 Bq m−3, 98 Bq m−3 and 4.9 Bq m−3, respectively. The thoron equilibrium factor ranges between 0.007 and 0.24, with an arithmetic mean of 0.06 ± 0.03; this is higher than the world average value of 0.02 provided by the United Nations Scientific Commission on the Effects of Atomic Radiation(UNSCEAR, New York, USA). The level of the soil radon concentration ranges from 4.8 to 57.3 kBq m−3, with a geometric mean of 12.1 kBq m−3 at a depth of 0.7 m. Of the sampling points, 66% fall within normal radon risk areas, and 3% of the sampling areas are high radon risk areas exceeding 50 kBq m−3. The annual effective dose was found to be 0.03 ± 0.01 mSv for radon, 0.08 ± 0.05 mSv for thoron, 0.63 ± 0.12 mSv for radon progeny and 1.40 ± 0.84 mSv for thoron progeny. The total dose is estimated to be 2.14 mSv y−1. The mean estimated indoor excess lifetime cancer risk values due to radon, thoron, radon progeny and thoron progeny are 0.12 × 10−3, 0.31 × 10−3, 2.51 × 10−3 and 5.58 × 10−3, respectively. Thoron progeny contributed 60% to the effective dose. Thus, thoron progeny cannot be neglected in dose assessments, in order to avoid biased results in radio-epidemiological studies.

Degassing of soil gas radon and its implication to fault activity in the western margin of the Ordos Block, China

AbstractSoil gas radon (Rn) serves as an effective indicator for assessing fault activity in fault zones. Measurement of Rn degassing at the active faults was conducted twice in 2017 and 2018 to assess fault activity in the western margin of the Ordos block. The concentration and flux values of Rn ranged from 0.41 to 40.93 kBq m−3 and 5.17 to 140.33 mBq m−2 s−1, respectively. The compression of the Tibetan Plateau has led to higher Rn concentration and flux in the southern part compared with the northern part. The fault activity is evaluated by the index of IRn calculated from Rn concentrations. The Haiyuan arcuate tectonic region exhibited the most intensive fault activity, followed by the Yinchuan Basin and Jilantai‐Linhe Basin. These findings enhance our understanding of the relationship between fault activity and Rn emission and provide a significant geochemical reference for the fault activity.

Characteristics of Indoor and Soil Gas Radon, and Discussion on High Radon Potential in Urumqi, Xinjiang, NW China

Urumqi City, located in the northwest of China, is a city with a high indoor radon concentration in a nationwide indoor radon survey in China. This study focuses on the assessment of the indoor radon level and its distribution in this city. Indoor radon measurement using RAD7 and solid nuclear track detector (SSNTD), soil gas radon measured by RAD7, and the determination of the specific activity of uranium and radium in soil samples by a high pure germanium spectrometer were performed from 2021 to 2023. The results reveal a wide range of indoor radon concentrations in Urumqi, with anomalies above 400 Bq/m3 in some dwellings. The arithmetical and geometric mean values of indoor radon concentration are 80 ± 77 Bq/m3 and 58 Bq/m3, respectively. The geometric mean value of radon measured by SSNTD is 101 Bq/m3. The distribution of areas with a high indoor radon concentration is spatially consistent with deep and large active faults or overlapping and intersection zones of multiple groups of faults. It is recommended to conduct a more comprehensive investigation and research into the elevated radon potential and radioactivity associated with building materials.

Measurement of radon concentration in soil gas and radon exhalation rate from soil samples along and across the Main Central Thrust of Garhwal Himalaya, India.

The present study focuses on measuring radon concentrations in soil gas at various depths, radon exhalation rate (surface and mass) from soil samples, and gamma dose rate along and across the Main Central Thrust of Garhwal Himalaya, India. Radon concentration in soil gas, surface, and mass exhalation rates was measured using a portable SMART radon monitor (RnDuo). Furthermore, the gamma dose rate was measured using a pocket radiation monitor. The soil gas radon concentration varied from 15 ± 4 to 579 ± 82Bqm-3 at a depth of 25cm, 10 ± 2 to 533 ± 75Bqm-3 at a depth of 30cm, and 9 ± 1 to 680 ± 95Bqm-3 at a depth of 35cm. The surface and mass exhalation rates were found 3 ± 0.7 to 98 ± 3Bqm-2h-1 (with AM ± SD = 36 ± 28Bqm-2h-1) and 1 ± 0.2 to 95 ± 2mBqkg-1h-1 (with AM ± SD = 30 ± 22mBqkg-1h-1), respectively. The gamma dose rate for the present study area varies from 0.11 ± 0.05 to 0.28 ± 0.05µSvh-1 with a mean value of 0.17 ± 0.05µSvh-1. The correlation analysis between the exhalation rates (mass and surface) and radon concentration of soil gas at various depths was carried out in the current study.

Impact of meteorological parameters on soil radon at Kolkata, India: investigation using machine learning techniques.

The daily soil radon activity has been measured continuously over a year with BARASOL BMC2 probe at a measuring site of Jadavpur University Campus in Kolkata, India. The dependency of soil radon activity with different atmospheric parameters such as soil temperature, soil pressure, humidity, air temperature, and rainfall has been also analyzed. The whole study period is divided in four seasons as proposed by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD). Minimum soil radon level has been observed during the winter season (December-February). On the other hand, higher soil radon level has been observed both for summer and monsoon. Except soil pressure, all other variables have shown positive correlation with soil radon activity. Among five variables, soil temperature has been the most significant variable in terms of correlation with soil radon level whereas maximum humidity has been the least significant correlated variable. It has been observed that considerable reduction of soil radon level occurred after four heavy rainfall events during the study period. The combined effect of these multi-parameters on soil radon gas has been evaluated using machine learning methods like principal component regression (PCR), support vector regression (SVR), random forest regression (RF), and gradient boosting machine (GBM). In terms of performances, RF and GBM have performed much better than SVR and PCR. More robust and consistent results have been obtained for GBM during both training and testing periods.

Applying machine learning to model radon using topsoil geochemistry

Radon is classified as a Class 1 carcinogen, being the leading cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Understanding the prominent sources of radon helps to mitigate against the adverse effects of radon exposure. Considering soil-gas radon is the main contributor to indoor radon, it is possible that soil geochemistry can be used as a proxy for the soil radon emanation potential or geogenic radon classes for a particular location. This paper investigates the relationship between soil geochemistry and geogenic radon. A large area of 17,983 km2 from the West, Midlands and East of Ireland was selected to represent a range of geology types and radon categories. A rigorous assessment is presented to investigate the relationship of geogenic radon and topsoil geochemistry; using univariate processes (i.e. r2, Pearson r and heatmaps) and multivariate techniques (i.e. principle component analysis (PCA) and machine learning (ML) algorithms including Gaussian process regression, logistic regression and random forest). Here, PCA and ML techniques were used to test the utility of soil geochemistry to predict geogenic radon classes. Gaussian Process Regression yielded the highest accuracy (74%) and f1-score (0.74) of all models. The feature importance (i.e. highest ranking elements for predicting geogenic radon class) from the ML models outputs elements including [Y, Tl, Mn, Cr, Co, Be, Sc and Rb]. The PCA biplot demonstrates that these elements cluster in conjunction with higher geogenic radon categories. Multivariate data analysis reveals that certain elements important for predicting higher geogenic radon classes, also covary together within topsoil samples; here these are termed “radon-prone elements”. Spatial covariance of radon-prone elements permits soil geochemistry to be used as a tool for understanding the distribution of geogenic radon. The methodology presented in this paper provides a comprehensive geo-statistical approach to investigate the relation between topsoil geochemistry and geogenic radon. This approach could be applied as a diagnostic tool to assist radon mitigation measures, hence adding value to legacy soil geochemistry datasets.