STUDY OF INDOOR RADON, THORON AND THEIR PROGENY IN SOUTH WEST KHASI HILLS DISTRICT OF MEGHALAYA, INDIA
A Pyngrope1, A Khardewsaw1, Y Sharma2
1Department of Physics, North-Eastern Hill University, Shillong 793022, India.
Radiation Protection Dosimetry
|April 29, 2020
Summary
Indoor radon and thoron levels were measured in Meghalaya, India using nuclear track detectors. The average annual effective dose was found to be 1.8 mSv, with seasonal variations noted.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiation Physics
- Public Health
Background:
- Indoor radon and thoron are significant sources of natural radiation exposure.
- Understanding their concentrations is crucial for assessing public health risks, especially in regions with unique geological characteristics like Meghalaya, India.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a comprehensive survey of indoor radon and thoron progeny concentrations in dwellings.
- To estimate the annual effective dose from these radioactive gases in the South West Khasi Hills district.
- To analyze seasonal variability and the influence of indoor parameters on radiation levels.
Main Methods:
- Utilized solid-state nuclear track detectors (SSNTDs) with a single-entry pinhole dosimeter design.
- Employed direct radon/thoron progeny sensors for accurate measurements.
- Conducted statistical analysis of the collected data.
Main Results:
- The mean annual effective dose in the study region was estimated at 1.8 mSv/year.
- Significant seasonal variations in radon/thoron concentrations were observed.
- The impact of various indoor environmental parameters on radiation levels was discussed.
Conclusions:
- The study provides essential data on indoor radon and thoron exposure in Meghalaya.
- Findings highlight the need for potential mitigation strategies to reduce public health risks.
- Further research into specific indoor parameters influencing radiation levels is warranted.
