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Study on Radon Adsorption-Migration Behavior and Parameter Inversion in a Granular Activated Carbon Column
Meng He1, Qi Zhong1, Hua-Li Zuo1,2
1School of Resources Environment and Safety Engineering, University of South China, Hengyang421001, China.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|July 22, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a new numerical method to accurately measure radon adsorption in granular activated carbon (GAC). The improved technique overcomes limitations of traditional methods, providing reliable radon adsorption coefficients.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Adsorption Science
Background:
- Radon adsorption in granular activated carbon (GAC) is crucial for mitigation.
- Traditional methods for determining the radon adsorption coefficient (DAC) have limitations.
- Accurate DAC determination is essential for effective radon control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate radon adsorption and migration in GAC columns.
- To develop a more accurate method for determining the radon adsorption coefficient.
- To reveal limitations of conventional DAC measurement techniques.
Main Methods:
- Developed a 3D geometric model of a GAC column.
- Employed Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to simulate radon migration.
- Established a numerical inversion method to determine DAC and diffusion coefficients.
Main Results:
- Identified systematic under/overestimation issues with the traditional DAC method.
- The numerical inversion method accurately determined DAC and diffusion coefficients.
- The inversion method showed robustness across varying flow rates and GAC masses.
Conclusions:
- The developed numerical inversion method is superior to traditional approaches.
- This technique provides a more accurate and reliable determination of the radon adsorption coefficient.
- The findings enhance understanding of radon behavior in GAC systems.
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