Assessment of the effect of environmental factors on radon concentration in soils

Abstract A joint evaluation of the variations that can be expected from radon in soil concentrations due mainly to meteorological factors has been carried out : one experiment in a tropical country (Costa-Rica), the other one in a temperature country (France). Radon concentration, rainfall, temperature and pressure have been recorded over 2 years and 4 years, respectively on the two sites. We both use LR-115 type 2 detectors but some special improvements of the inverted cup technique were achieved in Costa-Rica. Data and data processing including Fourier transform analysis are reported. On the other hand, using an experimental 10 m high tower provided at its bottom with a radon source, continuous measurements of the radon concentration have been performed and compared with short time period variations of the external factors.