Qualitative and quantitative characteristics of inexpensive radon meters as a basis for discussion on the creation of a protocol for their evaluation

The current prices of active radon detectors are around 250 euros. They are readily available to all Europeans. However, when choosing a particular detector, there is always the issue of the accuracy of its readings. Our previous research, which focused on determining the measurement seasons for active radon detectors available on the market, indicated the need to address this issue. To this end, pilot studies of several selected radon detector models were conducted in a radon chamber. The results show that the price of a detector does not always correspond to the quality of the measurements, but at the same time, when compared with professional AlphaGuard detectors, some models have measurement potential. The conference will present the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the analysed meters. The results presented will initiate a discussion on the creation of a protocol for the evaluation of devices in measurement practice available to every radon researcher. In addition, an idea for the construction of a low-cost radon meter for soil air will be presented.

Funding
The work was supported by the 'PhDBoost' Program for doctoral students of the Doctoral School of Poznan University of Technology (in 2024) from the University’s subsidy financed from the funds of Ministry of Science and Higher Education.