Radon (
222
Rn) is an odorless and colorless natural radioactive gas. It is produced
during the radioactive decay of radium-226
, itself a decay product of uranium-238 found in many types of crustal materials, i.e., rocks and soils.
How is radon 222 created?
Radon-222 is generated in
the uranium series from the alpha decay of radium-226
, which has a half-life of 1600 years. Radon-222 itself alpha decays to polonium-218 with a half-life of approximately 3.82 days, making it the most stable isotope of radon.
Where does radon 222 come from?
Radon-222 is formed
naturally during a chain of radioactive decay
. The decay series begins with uranium-238, and among the substances formed is radium-226, which decays directly to radon-222. The uranium is widely distributed in rocks and soils throughout the earth's crust.
Why does radon 222 build up in basements?
Radon gas accumulates in basements because
of low ventilation
. Heating and air-conditioning, natural air movement, the “stack effect,” as well as diffusion of radon gas through the floors and walls distribute radon throughout the house.
What is the main source of radon?
Radon comes from
the breakdown of naturally-occurring radioactive elements (such as uranium and thorium)
in soils and rocks. As part of the radioactive decay process, radon gas is produced.
How can radon-222 be prevented from entering homes?
- Stop smoking and discourage smoking in your home. …
- Increase air flow in your house by opening windows and using fans and vents to circulate air. …
- Seal cracks in floors and walls with plaster, caulk, or other materials designed for this purpose.
Why do we primarily concern about RN 222?
Epidemiological studies have established radon as
a leading cause of lung cancer
. Natural decay of uranium-238, a component of the earths' crust, results in the release of radon-222 gas. Concentrations of radon are typically low outdoors, but can accumulate in enclosed environments.
What are the symptoms of radon in your home?
Possible symptoms include shortness of breath (difficulty breathing),
a new or worsening cough, pain or tightness in the chest, hoarseness, or trouble swallowing
. If you smoke and you know you've been exposed to high levels of radon, it's very important to quit smoking.
Should I worry about radon gas?
Risks, levels and reduction
High levels of radon
can cause lung cancer
, particularly for smokers and ex-smokers. Radon produces tiny radioactive particles in the air we breathe. Radiation from these particles damages our lung tissue, and over a long period may cause lung cancer.
How do you eliminate radon?
There's no single method
that fits all radon removal system needs. Common techniques include: Sub-slab depressurization, where suction pipes are inserted through the floor or concrete slab into the concrete slab below the home. A radon vent fan then draws out the radon gas and releases it into the air outside.
Does finishing a basement reduce radon?
Again, the only way to ensure you are removing radon from your home is with a mitigation system. Sealing the basement floor can help, but just
sealing the cracks is unlikely to reduce your radon levels
in the long term. Sealing all cracks and applying non-porous, thick epoxy coatings would be a better step.
Do all basements have radon?
Basements aren't the only place you can find radon
. This is a common assumption since radon is most commonly found in basements. Unfortunately, it's also very wrong. Radon gas can be found anywhere in any home, not just in the basement.
Will opening basement windows reduce radon?
Opening windows improves air circulation and ventilation, helping move radon out of the house and mixing radon-free outside air with indoor air. … Opening basement windows
helps reduce negative air pressure
, diluting radon with clean outdoor air.
Is it OK to live in a house with radon?
The EPA states, “Radon is a health hazard with a simple solution.” Once radon reduction measures are in place, home buyers need not worry about the quality of the air in the home. … Since removing radon is relatively simple,
your family will be safe in a home with a radon reduction system in place
.
Is radon a natural source of radiation?
Radioactive materials (including uranium, thorium, and radium) exist naturally in soil and rock.
Essentially all air contains
radon , which is responsible for most of the dose that Americans receive each year from natural background sources.
How long do you have to be exposed to radon for it to be harmful?
If a person has been exposed to radon, 75% of the radon progeny in the lungs will become harmless lead particles
after 44 years
. When a particle damages a cell to make it cancerous, the onset of lung cancer takes at least five years, but often takes 15 to 25 years and even longer.
