Temporal variability of radon in the atmosphere of Domica and Va ecka Karst caves (Slovakia)

Radon activity concentration in the atmosphere of Domica and Važecká Karst caves exhibits significant seasonal, short-term, and daily variations. In Domica cave, radon levels ranged from 0.5 to 2.7 kBq m⁻³, peaking in September and remaining lowest between February and March, while Važecká cave showed higher concentrations (1.0 to 5.3 kBq m⁻³), with peaks observed from June to September and in January. These variations are primarily linked to atmospheric temperature, as no correlation was found with atmospheric pressure. The study, conducted through continual monitoring in Domica (2010–2011) and ongoing observations in Važecká since 2012, provides critical insights into radon dynamics in karst cave environments.

Smetanova, I., Holy, K., Zelinka, J., & Omelka, J. (2014). Temporal variability of radon in the atmosphere of Domica and Va ecka Karst caves (Slovakia). Radiation Protection Dosimetry, 160(1-3), 65–69. https://doi.org/10.1093/rpd/ncu097