Some measurements of radon in soils and in stream-water in County Durham

Radon is a radioactive gas emanating naturally from uranium rich granites and shales. It may be emitted from the ground surface into the atmosphere as a gas, or it may be dissolved into stream water and transported over distance. The levels of radon gas in soils at ground surface depend on a number of factors relating to the source of the gas and to its transmission. Igneous rocks contain the highest mean concentrations of radium and uranium. The depth of cover is relevant also. Surveys over the years by the National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB) and others have indicated that the highest concentrations in the United Kingdom occur in Cornwall, Devon and northeast Scotland. However, recent reports have indicated that high concentrations of the gas may be detected in small pockets in counties outside of those considered at high risk. This survey relates to a series of measurements taken in and around Darlington, County Durham. The results showed the presence of small areas with strong concentrations of radon in soil gas, but only minor levels of dissolved gas in stream waters.