In Situ Radon Surface Exhalation and Indoor Activity Concentration Analysis in Historical Buildings: A Comparative Case Study

A comparative analysis of radon surface exhalation and indoor activity concentrations in historical buildings reveals that cinder block masonry exhibits the highest exhalation rate (8.98 Bq m−2 h−1), followed by volcanic andesite ashlars (7.9 Bq m−2 h−1) and stone (1.87 Bq m−2 h−1). The study, conducted across three distinct structures in Slovakia—including a UNESCO-protected Gothic building—found that indoor radon levels are more strongly influenced by barometric pressure than outdoor temperature. An Activity Concentration Index of 0.30 suggests volcanic rock is radiologically safe for use as a bulk building material. Researchers employed continuous radon monitoring and accumulation chamber measurements, integrated with meteorological data, to assess the impact of different materials on indoor air quality.

Pijáková, J., Ingeli, R., & Rabenseifer, R. (2026). In Situ Radon Surface Exhalation and Indoor Activity Concentration Analysis in Historical Buildings: A Comparative Case Study. Buildings, 16(8), 1596. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16081596