DescriptionThe fundamental aim of this doctoral research was to determine the influence of water in the form of Humidity (% of water in air) on Radon detection. The basic hypothesis assumes that the amount of water molecules present in the air, attached to the radon molecules, has an influence on radon detection. A correlation can be determined between the model of water behavior and the level of radon detection - the higher the correlation the higher the influence, the lower the correlation the lower the influence.
In order to control, change and measure the input variables and accurately measure the data output, the research was conducted in the laboratory, in a closed loop environment. The equipment used was modified to ensure the integrity of the collected data and multiple experiments were conducted over a period of time. Radon was measured by a fiber-optic scintillating detector and radon ion (+) was measured by air-ion counters. The amount of radon ion attached to the wall of the detector compartment ranged from 1.38-5.74% of the initial total flow through the system.
The data produced by the experiments of count per minute of radon, relative humidity, temperature and dew-point was analyzed using SYSTAT software. Several analytical approaches were applied and it was determined that graphs gave the best fit. The data was normalized to minimize variations (such as the different time of the build up of the radon in the source), between the experiments. In this way experimental data could be compared, collated and analyzed.
A model of the water behavior was needed as a base for the research. The One Function X, One Function Y Standard Subset Equation was selected, with z= a+bLnx+cy, because it has a best degree of fitness equal to 0.995. The same equation, applied to the experimental data produced a degree of best fitness of 0.137. The research indicates that radon measurement is significantly influenced by water, in the form of humidity.