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Radon exhalation rates and gamma doses from ceramic tiles
R S O'Brien1, H Aral, J R Peggie
1Australian Radiation Laboratory, Yallambie, Victoria.
Health Physics
|November 25, 1998
Summary
Zircon glaze in tiles poses minimal radiological hazard. Studies show low radon exhalation rates and radiation doses, well below safety limits, due to low radon emanation from zircon.
Area of Science:
- Radiological Health
- Materials Science
- Environmental Science
Background:
- Building materials can pose radiological risks.
- Zircon is used in glazes for tiles.
- Assessing radon and gamma radiation from building materials is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the radiological hazard from zircon glazes on tiles.
- To measure radium content and radon exhalation rates.
- To compare estimated risks with established safety standards.
Main Methods:
- Gamma spectroscopy to measure 226Ra content.
- Activated charcoal adsorption to measure 222Rn exhalation rates.
- Calculation of radon emanation and diffusion coefficients.
Main Results:
- Radon exhalation rates were below detectable limits.
- Emanation and diffusion coefficients for zircon were significantly lower than soil.
- Estimated radon concentration and gamma dose were below action levels.
Conclusions:
- Zircon glazes on tiles present a negligible radiological hazard.
- Low radon emanation from zircon limits potential indoor radon buildup.
- The use of zircon in tile glazes is safe regarding radiological risks.