Preliminary results from an indoor Radon, Thoron and their progeny survey in Amroha: A district of Uttar Pradesh, India

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Radiological Protection
• Public Health

Background:

• Radon (Rn) and thoron (Tn) are major contributors to natural background radiation.
• Understanding indoor radon and thoron levels is crucial for assessing radiation exposure.
• Natural radioactivity assessment is vital for public health and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To measure radon (Rn) and thoron (Tn) concentrations in residential buildings.
• To assess indoor radiation exposure from natural background sources in Amroha district, India.
• To provide preliminary data on radon and thoron progeny levels in selected Indian households.

Main Methods:

• Utilized single entry-based twin-chamber pinhole dosimeters.
• Employed direct radon progeny sensors (DRPS) and direct thoron progeny sensors (DTPS).
• Used LR-115 red cellulose nitrate films (SSNTDs) for measurements in 51 randomly selected houses across 12 locations.

Main Results:

• Average Radon (²²²Rn) concentrations ranged from 7.58 to 52.11 Bq/m³.
• Average Thoron (²²⁰Rn) concentrations varied from 4.05 to 21.18 Bq/m³.
• Equilibrium Equivalent Radon Concentration (EERC) averaged 3.85 Bq/m³ (range 1.56–10.52 Bq/m³) and Equilibrium Equivalent Thoron Concentration (EETC) averaged 0.54 Bq/m³ (range 0.15–1.31 Bq/m³).

Conclusions:

• The study provides essential baseline data on indoor radon and thoron levels in the Amroha district.
• Measured concentrations indicate potential indoor radiation exposure risks that warrant further investigation.
• Findings underscore the importance of monitoring natural background radiation in residential environments.