Mathematical modelling of radon (~(222)Rn) exposure of underground mine workers: a comprehensive review

摘要

The primary purpose of this study is to establish the methods for determination of total growth of ~(222)Rn daughters and ~(222)Rn exposure of the workers at desired places of mines. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the types of radiation hazards associated with underground uranium mining. The mathematical modelling of the growth of~(222)Rn daughters for a horizontal tunnel is also derived in this paper. Further, an example of the determination of inhalation exposure of miners in a cut-and-fill stope mine is provided in this paper. A critical analysis of the literature review revealed that the radiological hazards associated with low-grade uranium ore are primarily owing to inhalation of ~(222)Rn and its daughters. The total growth of ~(222)Rn daughters are found to be 0.468 μJ/m~3 that are calculated based on the reported values of ~(222)Rn release rate from mine walls, blasting materials, fill materials, and the percolating water. Further, it also revealed that the radon contamination of intake air was the significant contributory factor in the radiation exposure of uranium mine workers.