Radon anomalies above deeply buried uranium ore deposits: a model for long-distance vertical transport of radionuclides
This model can explain the claimed radon anomalies in soil gas above deeply buried uranium ore deposits.
-
Upward migration of formation fluids is a feature of sedimentary basins.
-
These formation fluids can carry in solution various members of the uranium decay series, including uranium, radium and radon.
-
Some of these members have very long half-lives (uranium-238 is 4.5 billion years, radium-226 is 1622 years), time to migrate in anomalous
quantities to surface, where
radon anomalies can develop.
-
In addition, in a two-phase system of water and a non-aqueous liquid (hydrocarbon), any radon present will partition preferentially into the
non-aqueous phase. This phase is lighter than the water and, therefore, floats upwards and migrates to the surface faster, carrying
the radon with it.
-
A major advantage of using radon is that is easy to measure quickly in the field.
|
INSTRUMENTS
-
We measure: radon - radium - thoron - radon daughters - alpha radiation.
-
The
Lucas cell
is recognized as the most sensitive and reliable method for these elements.
-
Our instruments are used around the world in exploration for uranium, oil & gas, groundwater and hydrothermal,
and in environmental protection, health physics, earthquake prediction, and evaluation of hydrocarbon and NAPL contamination.
-
In the radon business since 1968, our latest major instrument update was 2015.
-
Modern, low-power, field-rugged electronics. Some earlier versions still working after 35 years.
-
Continuous real-time monitoring and data recording.
-
Winter and summer, from the Sahara Desert to the Canadian Shield, our instruments have faced up to severe field conditions.
- Intrinsically safe functions.
-
Sensitive to geochemical trace levels necessary for radon in lake water and for radon-thoron isotope ratios.
-
Can work in a tent without electricity or be carried from point to point in the field.
-
50 readings per day. Results available immediately.
-
Rechargeable battery pack good for a long day in the field and recharges in a few hours.
-
Can be operated by junior personnel if carefully supervised.
-
Same instruments used for radon and radium in soil, sediment,
plant parts, rocks, water, soil gas, air, and snow, and for radon daughters in air.
- EPA compliant.
-
Click here for more details of instruments.
-
Click here for or other instruments, components and
accessories we provide
-
Technical specification sheets and pictures of our instruments provided on request.
-
Multilingual consulting and training (if required).
For instruments contact
R.H. Morse & Associates Ltd.
1-416-269-9979
morse@finderschoice.com
skype: robert.morse.toronto |
Robert H. Morse, Ph.D., P.Eng.
September 15, 2008
|