Fluid-based System for Radon Mitigation

Argonne National Laboratory (ANL) recently discovered that a class of inexpensive and biologically benign fluids absorb radon gas with a high efficiency at room temperature, and release radon at slightly elevated temperatures (50-60 OC). This has led to the development of simple and inexpensive devices for continuous removal of radon from air. Such devices offer numerous advantages over conventional cryogenic charcoal systems for the removal of radon and thoron for DOE site remediation activities, and for decontamination and decommissioning of reactors, hot cells, and other DOE facilities. Spinoff applications may include continuous removal of radon gas from homes and office buildings. This paper presents the results of extensive parametric experiments conducted with prototype packed-column absorption devices to establish the feasibility and operational efficiencies attainable. Performance parameters evaluated include breakthrough times, saturation capacities, Henry's law constants for a range of candidate organic fluids, absorption and degassing rates measured at different temperatures, and the effects of radon concentration on attainable removal efficiencies.