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Indoor radon levels and gamma-radiation in dwellings of the Metropolitan Zone of Guadalajara

  • Radioecology
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Abstract

The present study in the Metropolitan Zone of Guadalajara (MZG) in the state of Jalisco was carried out along 2007. 222Rn (radon) and 220Rn (thoron) levels were measured in single-family dwellings in normal living conditions (open house condition). Measurements were accomplished by Electret Passive Environmental Radon Monitors (E-PERM) in different configurations. At the same time and for the same period, the gamma dose rate was measured by a LiF: Mg, Cu, P+PTFE thermoluminiscent dosimeter. A Quality Assurance Program was improved. Results show a lognormal distribution of annual concentrations and seasonal variations. Mean annual concentrations of radon were lower than US EPA and EEC action values. 220Rn levels appear to be higher than the typical value determined by the UNSCEAR Reports (1993 and 2000). Performance of different E-PERM configurations accomplishes the US EPA guidelines and yield useful results for diverse situations. Gamma rate dose was higher than that of the Metropolitan Zone of Mexico.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Facultad de Química. Departamento de Química Inorgánica y Nuclear, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, México DF, 04510, México

    O. Y. Morales, T. Martinez, M. Navarrete, L. Cabrera & A. Ramírez

  2. National Institute of Nuclear Research, Ocoyoacac, Edo. de México, 05045, México

    P. González

Authors
  1. O. Y. Morales
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  2. T. Martinez
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  3. P. González
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  4. M. Navarrete
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  5. L. Cabrera
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  6. A. Ramírez
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Correspondence to T. Martinez.

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Morales, O.Y., Martinez, T., González, P. et al. Indoor radon levels and gamma-radiation in dwellings of the Metropolitan Zone of Guadalajara. J Radioanal Nucl Chem 280, 431–437 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-009-0540-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10967-009-0540-6

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