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Outdoor (222)Rn-concentrations in Germany - part 1 - natural background.

M Kümmel¹, C Dushe¹, S Müller¹

¹Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz, 38226 Salzgitter, Germany.

Journal of Environmental Radioactivity

|February 15, 2014

Summary

Outdoor radon ((222)Rn) levels in Germany average 9 ± 1 Bq m⁻³, with regional variations. This study measured radon and its decay products to assess natural radiation exposure across the country.

Keywords:

(222)Rn EEC Germany Natural background Outdoor Radon

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Area of Science:

Environmental Science
Radiation Protection
Atmospheric Chemistry

Background:

Radon ((222)Rn) is a naturally occurring radioactive gas contributing to environmental radiation exposure.
Understanding outdoor radon concentrations is crucial for assessing public health risks and natural radiation doses.

Purpose of the Study:

To determine the natural radiation exposure from outdoor radon ((222)Rn) and its short-lived decay products in Germany.
To establish a nationwide spatial distribution of outdoor radon concentrations and related parameters.

Main Methods:

A three-year measurement program was conducted by the Federal Office for Radiation Protection (BfS).
Annual mean radon concentrations were measured using solid-state track etch detectors at 173 grid points.
Equilibrium-equivalent radon concentration (EEC) and equilibrium factor were estimated using activity concentrations of (214)Pb and (214)Bi at 27 German Meteorological Service (DWD) stations.

Main Results:

The spatial mean outdoor radon concentration for Germany was determined to be 9 ± 1 Bq m⁻³ (median: 8 Bq m⁻³).
Regional radon concentrations varied significantly, ranging from 4.5 Bq m⁻³ in Hamburg to 14 Bq m⁻³ in Bavaria.
The determined equilibrium-equivalent radon concentration (EEC) ranged from 1.4 to 11 Bq m⁻³.

Conclusions:

The study provides a comprehensive overview of outdoor radon exposure across Germany.
Findings contribute to a better understanding of natural radiation exposure from radon and its decay products.
Results can inform radiation protection strategies and risk assessments at national and regional levels.