Assessment of the radiological impact of using fly ash in cement

The radiological consequences of using fly ash as a component of cement are discussed. Measurements of the activity concentrations of the fly ash and cement are reported together with measurements of emanation coefficients and exhalation rates. The radon-exhalation rate was found to be significantly lower in concrete containing fly ash than in ordinary concrete. Dose calculations suggest that fly ash will contribute to a reduction in effective dose equivalent due to the reduced radon-exhalation rate.