Esp
Radon is a radioactive gas (colorless, odorless and tasteless) released by the decay of uranium, thorium and radium elements in rocks and soil, and tends to concentrate in enclosed spaces. We do not detect it except by measurement and, due to its gaseous state, it penetrates into dwellings through gaps, porous materials or irregularities in the enclosure.
It is also found in the air at very low levels, but without adequate ventilation it can accumulate to levels that substantially increase the risk of lung cancer. In fact, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) it is the second leading cause of lung cancer after tobacco, accounting for 3-14% of the total.
Radon gas cannot be perceived by our senses, so we must measure it. To measure the concentration of radon in the air, the becquerel per cubic meter is used. Thus, it is determined that a building is at risk if it presents measurements higher than 300 Bq/m^3 (or what is the same as smoking 16 cigarettes a day).
In order to carry out a correct measurement, the Nuclear Safety Center recommends contacting laboratories accredited for the measurement of radon in air according to ISO 17025.
In Spain, the areas with the highest exposure to radon gas are Galicia, a large part of Castilla y León, Extremadura, Madrid, the Canary Islands and certain areas of Castilla La Mancha. This is because it occurs in areas where the subsoil is formed by granitic rocks, or by sediments whose origin is granitic rocks.
There are various systems and solutions to be applied, both for new housing and for renovations and rehabilitations. The use of anti-radon barriers, combined with other systems, such as floor ventilation, has proven its effectiveness against this enemy that we can neither see nor feel, but that causes serious health problems.
Among the most common materials for the execution of barriers would be, on the one hand, sheets (bituminous, synthetic or rubber) and, on the other hand, liquid waterproofing systems.
It is important to always opt for quality materials and that their installation is carried out by qualified professionals, following the manufacturer's instructions. In this way, its efficiency and durability is guaranteed.
