Jun 7 – 11, 2026
Prague, Czechia
Europe/Prague timezone

Assessment of Radon Concentrations in Residential Environments in Carambeí and Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil

Jun 10, 2026, 3:54 PM
2m
CTU in Prague, Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering (Prague, Czechia)

CTU in Prague, Faculty of Nuclear Sciences and Physical Engineering

Prague, Czechia

Břehová 78/7 115 19 Prague 1 Czech Republic GPS. 50.0910372N, 14.4163028E
Poster Environmental dosimetry and monitoring Poster session

Speaker

Hugo Schelin (Federal University of Technology - Parana)

Description

Indoor radon is a major contributor to natural radiation exposure and is recognized as the second leading cause of lung cancer worldwide. It originates from the decay of uranium and thorium naturally present in soil and building materials and can enter buildings through cracks and structural openings. This study aimed to measure indoor radon concentrations in residences located in Carambeí and Curitiba (Santa Felicidade district), Paraná, Brazil, and to compare the results with international radiological protection recommendations. Passive CR-39 solid-state nuclear track detectors were deployed for a minimum exposure period of 90 days. After exposure, track densities were analyzed by optical microscopy using a previously validated methodology developed through collaboration between UTFPR and CDTN/CNEN. In Carambeí, 97% of the monitored residences showed radon concentrations ranging from 95 ± 15 Bq/m³ to 171 ± 25 Bq/m³, remaining below the reference level recommended by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (300 Bq/m³). However, one residence presented a concentration of 461 ± 65 Bq/m³, exceeding international guidelines and indicating the need for mitigation measures. In Curitiba, concentrations ranged from 87 ± 14 Bq/m³ to 143 ± 22 Bq/m³, all below recommended limits. The results demonstrate regional variability associated with local geological characteristics and highlight the importance of systematic radon monitoring. These findings contribute to the assessment of indoor exposure in southern Brazil and support the development of national policies for radon control and public health protection.

Author

Dr Silvia Palma (Federal University of Technology - Parana)

Co-authors

Mrs Aline Martin (Federal University of Technology - Parana) Hugo Schelin (Federal University of Technology - Parana) Dr Janine Correa (Federal University of Technology - Parana) Monique Oliveira (Federal University of Technology - Parana) Dr Sergei Paschuk (Federal University of Technology - Parana) Dr Valeriy Denyak (Federal University of Technology - Parana)

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