Radon and thoron progeny concentration variability in relation to meteorological conditions at Bucharest (Romania).
The paper presents results of natural radioactivity levels in the atmosphere obtained for a 5 years period (1994-1999) at the Bucharest Environmental Radioactivity Surveillance Station (BERSS). The variability of radon and thoron progeny activity concentrations is analysed in relation to the local dynamics of the meteorological parameters (wind speed, air temperature, air pressure, cloud cover, relative humidity). The radon and thoron progeny concentrations display a daily and seasonal variation, with the highest values in the early morning and the lowest values in the afternoon. The outdoor radon progeny concentrations show maximum values in autumn and minimum values in spring-summer. The outdoor thoron progeny concentrations display maximum values in autumn and minimum values in winter. Significant statistical correlations with the meteorological parameters were obtained. The study on the temporal variability of natural atmospheric radioactivity near Bucharest is a starting point for further assessment of the radiological consequences resulting from human activities.
Baciu
Adriana Celestina
AC
National Commission for Nuclear Activities Control, Section for Radioprotection and Radiological Emergencies, Libertatii 14 Blvd, Bucharest 5, Romania. adriana.baciu@cncan.ro
D000392:Air Movements; D000396:Air Pollutants, Radioactive / Q000032:analysis*; D006801:Humans; D006813:Humidity; D011834:Radiation Monitoring; D011886:Radon / Q000032:analysis*; D017687:Radon Daughters / Q000032:analysis*; D018570:Risk Assessment; D012383:Romania; D012621:Seasons; D013696:Temperature; D013997:Time Factors; D014887:Weather
D000396:Air Pollutants, Radioactive; D017687:Radon Daughters; D011886:Radon