Evaluation of the concentration of radon 222 depending on the type of soil and hours of day in the southern zone of Huancayo

Abstract

The present research work addressed the topic of radon gas, because it is a radioactive gas that, when inhaled, can cause damage to the lungs. In view of this, the main objective of the research was to determine radon 222 concentrations based to the type of soil and monitoring hours of the day in the districts of the southern zone of Huancayo. A methodology with a quantitative approach, with an experimental scope and a scientific method was proposed. The development of the theoretical perspective was based on the review of academic documentation and the radon equipment RD200 Radon Eye was used to obtain the data used in carrying out the work presented. According to the IPEN, with the analysis presented, it is concluded that the radon 222 level of the sampled dwellings are homes that are below the maximum permissible limit, according to the OMS the maximum allowable limit is 4.0 pCi /l, but housing above the maximum permissible limit was also found, whose concentrations were in the range of 2.09 and 8.17 pCi /l. It was concluded also that radon levels varied according to the hours of the day, influenced by the type of soil, with higher concentrations found in coarse sandy type. According to research, the average indoor radon level is estimated to be around 1.3 pCi / l. A radon level > 4 pCi /l represents risk; however, according to the OMS, it is recommended to consider solving the radon problem if the levels are between 2 and 4 pCi /l, generally the alternatives to solve the problem are waterproofing the base of the homes, actions that have been applied in several countries.