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Characterization of {sup 222}Rn entry into a basement structure surrounded by low permeability soil

Thesis/Dissertation ·
OSTI ID:114777
An experimental facility has been developed to monitor the entry rate and concentration of {sup 222}Rn in two basement type structures surrounded by soil having a permeability on the order of 1-{sup {minus}12} m{sup 2}. A data acquisition system recorded environmental conditions outside and inside the structures, including basement air exchange rates, every 15 min. Indoor {sup 222}Rn concentrations ranged from 400 to 1400 Bq m{sup {minus}3}. The observed {sup 222}Rn entry rate is highly variable and has two primary components; a constant input rate caused by diffusion of {sup 222}Rn through the concrete walls and floor, and a variable rate that depends upon indoor-soil pressure differentials of only a few pascals. Pressure differentials are dependent upon wind speed and wind direction. Stack effect was not significant. During a two week period, with relatively calm winds, diffusion through the concrete walls and floor plus the floor-wall joint accounted for more than 80% of the total {sup 222}Rn entry.
Research Organization:
Colorado State Univ., Fort Collins, CO (United States)
OSTI ID:
114777
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English