Optimization of Placement of Continuous Air Monitors in a Radiological Facility

Abstract

The airborne concentration of radioactive materials in radiological facilities is primarily influenced by the ventilation system, air purification system, and emission sources. Continuous Air Monitors (CAMs) are installed in these facilities to monitor the activity concentration of radioactive aerosols during both routine operations and any malfunctioning conditions. Typically, CAM placement is determined by the direction of maximum airflow. However, aerosols do not always adhere to the behaviour of airstreams, raising concerns about the suitability of CAM placement. To address this issue, this study employs software that integrates aerosol dynamics with computational fluid dynamics to calculate the CAM Placement Parameter. This parameter is derived from the peak aerosol concentration and the lag time to reach the specified CAM location, indicating the relative merit of positioning CAMs in a radiological facility under varying ventilation rates. The findings suggest that the coupled aerosol-fluid dynamics model accurately predicts the optimal placement of CAMs in workplace environments, thereby minimizing occupational exposure.