Radon Research in Bulgarian Caves: An Interview with Atanas Terziyski
In this video, Martin from RadonTec introduces the Alpha-Sensor, which is also used for radon research projects in Bulgarian caves. The project, led by Atanas Terziyski from the University in Bulgaria, investigates, among other things, the connection between seismological activities and radon.
Project Goal
The main goal of the project is to determine whether radon gas can be used as an indicator for earthquake predictions. The researchers work under extreme conditions in the caves, where humidity can reach up to 100%. The sensor must be able to measure radon concentrations from very low levels up to 500,000 Becquerel.
Use of the Alpha-Sensor
The Alpha-Sensor from RadonTec is ideal for these conditions. It can measure radon concentrations up to 1,000,000 Bq/m³. In the interview, Atanas Terziyski explains how the research team installed the sensor in the caves and what results have been achieved so far.
Data Recording in Caves
The team continuously collects data from various caves in northeastern Bulgaria. Radon concentration is measured every 10 minutes, and the data is downloadable as a CSV file. In addition to radon concentration, atmospheric pressure, background radiation, temperature, and relative humidity are also measured. The data shows an annual pattern, with radon concentration rising in winter and falling in summer. This is explained by the exchange of cold and warm air between the cave and the outside environment.
Research Results and Methods
The team has developed and tested various forms of plastic scintillators to maximize sensitivity to radon concentrations. They have also used old scintillators from East Germany and the USSR to evaluate radon activities. Another aspect of the research is studying changes in nature before and after earthquakes, with radon serving as a precise indicator.
Health Monitoring
In addition to seismological research, the Alpha-Sensor is also used for air quality monitoring. In a project between Bulgaria and Romania, researchers measure volatile organic compounds. These data are publicly accessible and can be freely used.
Project Status and Future Steps
The team has completed two smaller projects, including creating a radon map of Bulgaria and investigating the correlation between seismic activity and radon concentration. Another project is currently underway and is expected to be completed by the end of next year. The team plans to further develop the data, conduct additional measurements, and place sensors at new locations, as well as measure other values such as CO2 and radon in water.
Collaboration and International Projects
The team is working with a professor from the USA who uses scintillators and is interested in measuring gamma and alpha radiation. They are also participating in an international project called EMIS, which investigates radon as a tracer gas for earthquake early warning systems. Additionally, there are plans to install similar sensors in the Balkan countries.
Real-Time Data and Public Accessibility
The team places great importance on making the collected data publicly and freely accessible to benefit everyone. The real-time data from the project is available on the website meters.ac.
Product Information
The AlphaTracer Office and AlphaTracer Industry are innovative radon sensors from LivAir, designed for real-time radon measurements in buildings. The AlphaTracer Office is specifically designed for office environments, offering high accuracy and speed in radon measurement. It is robust against environmental influences such as temperature, humidity, vibration, dust, and dirt.
The AlphaTracer Industry, on the other hand, is designed for more demanding conditions such as waterworks, tunnels, mines, and industrial halls. It is splash-proof (IP54) and also very robust. Both sensors utilize LivAir's patented measurement technology and are designed for a wide measurement range of up to 1,000,000 Bq/m³. The built-in Alpha-Sensor is characterized by its high sensitivity and stability, even under extreme conditions, making it ideal for continuous monitoring of radon concentrations.
