Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Determining The Effects Of Waste Coal Ash On Landfill Radon Levels, Richard S. Krysiak Jr.

Theses and Dissertations

Coal contains trace amounts of the primary radionuclides ⁴⁰K, and elements of the 4n (²³²Th), 4n+2 (²³⁸U), and 4n+3 (²³⁵U) series including ²²⁰Rn and ²²²Rn. Combustion of coal by electric power and heat plants result in concentration of noncombustible mineral matter, including most of the radionuclides, in the coal ash. The increased radiation due to the concentration of radionuclides is known as technologically enhanced natural radiation. The purpose of this research was to determine the effects of landfilled coal ash on one specific aspect of technologically enhanced natural radiation, radon levels. …