Measurement and Calculation of Radon Releases from NORM Residues

摘要

This report covers the prediction, measurement and monitoring of radon releases from NORM residues, including uranium mining and milling residues. The intention is to support environmental investigations and assessments, as well as remediation in areas contaminated by NORM, by presenting state of the art concepts, models and parameters. The primary focus of this report is the release of ~(222)Rn, although ~(220)Rn and ~(219)Rn are also discussed, and the material herein discussed can also be applied to those isotopes, with modifications. The report covers methods of prediction, measurement and monitoring of radon emanation from grains into interstitial spaces, transport within the residue and soil profile and exhalation into the atmosphere from the surface. The related topics of emanation and exhalation from non-residue materials, the behaviour of radon in the atmosphere following exhalation, implications for dose assessment and applications of radon as a tracer of environmental processes are all outside the scope of this report.