The indoor radon problem: Studies in the Albuquerque,New Mexico area |
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| Authors: | Douglas G Brookins |
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| Institution: | (1) Department of Geology, University of New Mexico, 87131 Albuquerque, New Mexico |
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| Abstract: | Radon buildup in homes is now recognized throughout the world as a potentially major health hazard. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory
Commission and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimate 8,000–30,000 fatalities per year in the United States due
to indoor radon.
The Albuquerque, New Mexico area was chosen for study because it is representative of metropolitan areas in the southwestern
United States where slightly uraniferous source rocks (Sandia granite) have provided the very immature soil for much of the
area. The granite contains 4.7 ppm U, and limestone capping the granite 5.7 ppm U. Soils in the area average 4.24 ppm U, and
Th/U ratios average 3.2. These data suggest some removal of U from the source rocks, but fixation of the U in the soils (that
is, as opposed to widespread removal of the U by solution), thus providing a ready source for soil radon. A pilot study of
soil radon in the area in winter of 1983–1984 shows high values, 180 pCi/l, relative to the U.S. average (about 100 pCi/l).
In the winter of 1986–1987, 180 dwellings were surveyed for their indoor radon levels, including 20 that had been surveyed
in summer of 1986. Twenty-eight percent of those in the winter study yielded indoor radon above the EPA suggested maximum
permissible level of 4 pCi/l air, well above the EPA estimate of 10–15 dwellings for the U.S. The indoor radon levels show
positive correlation with closeness to the Sandia Mountains, to soil radon, to excess insulation, to homes with solar capacities,
and other factors. Building materials may provide a very minor source of some indoor radon. Summer readings are lower than
winter readings except when the houses possess refrigerated air conditioning. |
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