A Study of Natural Radioactivity Levels and Radon/Thoron Release Potential of Bedrock and Soil in Southeastern Ireland

Radon (222Rn) and thoron (220Rn) account for almost two-thirds of the annual average radiation dose received by Irish population. A detailed study natural radioactivity levels radon exhalation rates was carried out in a legislatively designated “high radon” area, as based on existing indoor measurements. Indoor concentrations, airborne radiometric data stream sediment geochemistry were collated, set soil samples taken from area. The (E222Rn) (E220Rn) collected determined laboratory. resultant classified geological type parameters. Geological boundaries found to be robust classifiers radon-related variables, whilst classification better differentiates correlated variables. Linear models developed predict Distribution maps (range: E222Rn [0.15–1.84] E220Rn [475–3029] Bq m−2 h−1) effective (with mean value 0.84 mSv y−1) are presented. For some parts calculated exceeds recommended level 1 y−1, illustrating significant risk. Airborne powerful fast tool prediction geogenic This method can used other areas where available.