Radon emanation coefficients for phosphogysum
- Univ. of Alberta, Edmonton (Canada)
Phosphogypsum is a by-product of the phosphate fertilizer industry which is stockpiled in large quantities world-wide. Phosphogypsum consists mainly of dihydrate gypsum (CaSO{sub 4}2H{sub 2}O) but also contains elevated concentrations of {sup 226}Ra and other inorganic species which originate from the processing of phosphate rock. {sup 222}Rn gas is the first decay product of {sup 226}Ra and has been identified as one of the major environmental concerns associated with phosphogypsum. This study was conducted to determine effects of particle size, weathering, and moisture content on the {sup 222}Rn emanation coefficient ({epsilon}) for phosphogypsums. Practical conclusions from this study are discussed, such as the effects of a repository of a phosphogypsum site on radon emanation. 35 refs., 3 figs., 2 tabs.
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE
- OSTI ID:
- 258833
- Journal Information:
- Health Physics, Journal Name: Health Physics Journal Issue: 4 Vol. 69; ISSN HLTPAO; ISSN 0017-9078
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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