Radon concentrations in soil of the city of Podgorica, Montenegro

Abstract

Radon concentrations in soil of the city of Podgorica, capital of Montenegro, were measured using passive radiometers. The radiometers were placed in the soil at a depth of 70-80 cm, in refilled holes, and cellulose nitrate detectors were exposed during 14 days. The arithmetic mean of the radon concentrations at 67 locations is found to be 37 kBq/m3, with a standard deviation of 16 kBq/m3. The frequency distribution of radon levels in soil is almost symmetrical. This investigation shows that the radon level in soil above the geological fault, in a non-seismic situation, is not higher than in soil of other city areas. The radon concentrations in soil at a contact zone between flat terrain and rocky hills are not found to be generally higher than elsewhere in the city area.