Effect of temperature on the radon release characteristics of red clay

Bricks and tiles crafted from fired red clay are extensively utilized in everyday construction activities. However, red clay inherently contains radon gas, a radioactive substance that could potentially endanger human health. Hence, investigating the radon emission patterns of red clay post high-temperature treatment holds significant importance. This study examines the pore structure of red clay following high-temperature treatment through nitrogen adsorption and analyzes the radon release patterns. Findings reveal that the radon release rate from red clay initially rises, then declines with increasing temperature, peaking at 200 °C, registering at 0.0127 Bq/(m² s). The pore structure significantly influences radon exhalation, with connectivity and micropore volume demonstrating linear correlations with radon exhalation rate, with correlation coefficients of 0.96 and 0.78, respectively. This research offers valuable insights into radon radiation in structures made of red clay.