How Are Radon Detectors Made?
- Radon detectors are inexpensive and easy to use. There are various types, but they fall into two general categories: short-term detectors that measure radon levels over a period of a few hours or days and long-term detectors that measure levels for three to 12 months. Some detectors can be used for both short- and long-term monitoring.
- Common short-term detectors include charcoal liquid scintillation detectors and activated charcoal adsorption detectors. These types use charcoal to soak up radon gas that is present in the atmosphere. The radon gas content is analyzed.
- Long-term radon detectors have the advantage of giving a more accurate picture of the amount of radon present. They types include the alpha track device, which uses a section of sensitive plastic. When the alpha radiation particles given off by radon gas hit the plastic, they produce microscopic tracks on the surface. These tracks can be analyzed by researchers to deduce the amount of radon gas that is present.
