Development of a Radon Barrier

Abstract

High radon progeny exposures exist in structures where uranium mill tailings have been improperly used as a concrete aggregate constituent and as a leveling or backfill material. The application of a radon barrier on the indoor face of these structures' foundations is considered a potential means to reduce the radon progeny exposure to the occupants. Presented here are the methods used and the results obtained in the search for a material capable of inhibiting or entirely blocking diffusion of a noble radioactive gas such as radon; a material which would simultaneously offer good durability and be practical. Demonstration of the method's applicability is shown by successful reduction of radon concentrations to sub-background levels in an experimental building built atop uranium mill tailings.

Indoor Radon and Its Decay Products: Concentrations, Causes, and Control Strategies

“…Similarly, efforts at Grand Junction and elsewhere, where elevated indoor levels associated with the indiscriminate use of uranium mill tailings had been discovered, prompted work on control techniques, one example being the work of Culot and collaborators on sealants (Culot et al 1978).…”

Development of an Anti-radon Coating for Underground Engineering

“…An anti-radon coating is a modified traditional coating in which anti-radon functional element materials are used instead of common fillers. The development and application of anti-radon coatings play an important role in the prevention and control of radon pollution [9][10][11][12]. Traditional anti-radon coatings have been widely used in industrial, civil and military ground engineering with remarkable results.…”