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Sampling and analysis for radon-222 dissolved in ground water and surface water
1U.S. Geological Survey, INEL Project Office, P.O. Box 2230, 83402, Idaho Falls, ID, U.S.A..
Environmental Monitoring and Assessment
|November 16, 2013
Summary
Radon-222, a radioactive gas, poses lung cancer risks. This study reviews sampling and analytical methods for measuring radon in water, highlighting the need for standardized guidelines for public health protection.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Public Health
- Radiochemistry
Background:
- Radon-222 is a naturally occurring radioactive gas from uranium-238 decay.
- Inhaling radon decay products is linked to lung cancer, as shown in uranium miner studies.
- Radon in water is a public health concern, necessitating reliable sampling and analysis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and discuss various sampling and analytical methods for radon in water.
- To address the lack of a single, convenient set of guidelines for field personnel.
- To inform the development of standardized protocols for radon monitoring.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of three distinct methods: bubbler, liquid scintillation, and field screening.
- Evaluation of accuracy, precision, and detection limits for each method.
- Assessment of the suitability of each method for different monitoring scenarios.
Main Results:
- Bubbler and liquid scintillation methods offer high accuracy and precision.
- Detection limits are as low as 0.2 pCi/L (bubbler) and 10 pCi/L (liquid scintillation).
- Field screening is primarily a qualitative reconnaissance tool.
Conclusions:
- Standardized sampling and analytical guidelines are needed for radon in water.
- Bubbler and liquid scintillation methods are suitable for accurate quantitative measurements.
- Field screening provides a rapid, qualitative assessment of radon presence.
