A methodology for assessing the maximum expected radon flux from soils in northern Latium (central Italy)

Environ Geochem Health. 2006 Dec;28(6):541-51. doi: 10.1007/s10653-006-9051-3. Epub 2006 Nov 21.

Abstract

Northern Latium (Italy) is an area where the Rn risk rate is potentially high because of the extensive outcropping of Neogene U-rich volcanics and the presence of major active tectonic lineaments. The lack of data on Rn risk rates in that area, which is undergoing major urban and industrial development, has prompted this study. It proposes a methodology to evaluate the maximum potential diffusive Rn flux from soils based on the measurement of (226)Ra, (232)Th and (40)K activities by gamma-ray spectrometry, and the measurement of main soil parameters influencing the Rn emanation. This methodology provides a simple, reliable and low-cost tool for drawing up radon flux maps useful to both public planners and private individuals, who want to operate safely in the study area. The proposed methodology may also be applied to other geographic areas outside the prescribed study area.

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants, Radioactive / analysis*
  • Air Pollution, Indoor / analysis
  • Environmental Monitoring / methods*
  • Geography
  • Italy
  • Radon / analysis*
  • Risk Assessment
  • Soil*
  • Spectrometry, Gamma

Substances

  • Air Pollutants, Radioactive
  • Soil
  • Radon