Determination of 222Rn emanation fraction and diffusion coefficient in concrete using accumulation chambers and the influence of humidity and radium distribution

In this paper we present a laboratory method for the determination of diffusion coefficient, D, as well as the 222Rn emanation fraction, f, in concrete core samples. It is based either on the analyses of the growth curves of the radon in the air volume surrounding a sample enclosed in an accumulation chamber (Lucas cell or RADIM device) or using the charcoal adsorption method. Samples used have a special geometry allowing the assumption of a one-dimensional diffusion of radon in material. Radium was enhanced in the concrete samples by adding radium bromide solution or uranium ore. A strong dependence of the emanation fraction on the enhancing method was observed. For the sample enhanced with uranium ore the specific exhalation rate was about ten times smaller. A marked dependence of radon exhalation on the water content was also observed.