Investigation of Seasonal Variation of Indoor Radon-222 Concentration

Abstract

Inhalation and ingestion are the two main routes upon which human beings are exposed to radon and its decay products. Due to the electrostatics nature, radon can attach to solid particles and aerosols in the surrounding air. During the inhalation of these radioactive aerosols deposition will be takes place in different regions of the human respiratory tract. The deposited aerosols carrying radon and its progeny undergo a continuous radioactive transformation and exposing the lung to the ionizing alpha radiation which can destroy sensitive cells in the lung causing a mutation that turns to cancerous. Radon which is colorless, odorless and tasteless radioactive noble gas is the major health concern which is the second leading cause of lung cancer. In this concern, indoor radon survey has been conducted in many countries in the world. The result of these surveys shows that indoor radon concentration has a seasonal variation. This is due to the fluctuation of environmental parameters and geological nature of the building. Its concentration was found maximum in cool (winter) season and minimum concentration was recorded in warm (summer) season of the year.