Recent  

A radon long-range atmospheric transport modelling is set up from soil (exhalation) to soil (deposition of its progeny) and the consequent ambient gamma dose rate is evaluated. The whole is statistically assessed in regards to more than 15 000 gamma dose rate peaks. The model has proven to be of the correct magnitude, with room for substantial improvements. It may be used to validate an atmospheric transport modelling and to test any exhalation maps of radon at continental scale.

Airborne Gamma-Ray spectrometry (AGRS) is a rapid method to identify and quantify natural as well as man-made radionuclides in large areas. The quantitative response of a standard AGRS detection system was simulated with the Monte Carlo radiation transport code FLUKA. Based on validation measurements with radiation sources, the simulation results show superior accuracy compared to previous models. The validated model can be used for an improved calibration of AGRS systems.

Indoor/outdoor air exchange on indoor radon concentration was investigated. We evaluated the effect of air exchange on radon concentration in a scale model room. Air introduction was more effective than air extraction to reduce indoor radon, especially at higher flow rates. The presence of plasterboard shields on the inner walls of the room improved the results. This suggests that the combined use of inner coatings and outdoor air introduction are a good strategy for radon mitigation.

There is a growing need in health and climate research for high-quality radon observations. A variety of radon monitors, with different uncertainties, operate across global networks. Better compatibility between the measurements is required. Here we describe a novel, portable two-filter radon monitor with a calibration traceable to the International System of Units, and demonstrate the transfer of a traceable calibration from this instrument to a separate monitor under field conditions.

Sardinia Region promoted a plan to protect the population from exposure to radon gas. Communication activities are ancillary to develop the whole monitoring and risk identification, a work in collaboration among professionals, a dialogue with policy-makers and the community in general, to develop awareness and prevention. Strengths, weaknesses and lessons learned are shown.