Date of Award

5-4-2022

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Geosciences

First Advisor

Dajun Dai

Second Advisor

Paulo J, Hidalgo-Odio

Third Advisor

Christine Elizabeth Stauber

Abstract

Radon is a radioactive gas that potentially causes lung cancer after long-term exposure. This thesis investigated the confluent impact of geology, housing characteristics, and season on indoor radonand identified the significant factors associated with elevated radon levels in Atlanta metropolitan area, USA. Using the data obtained from the private vendor, Air Chek, this study identified hot spots of high radon levels. The hot spots were found in Douglas, Fulton, DeKalb, and Gwinnett. Through binary logistic regression analysis, this study identified that the granite and orthogneiss bedrock, the ranch-style house, the presence of a basement, and the test in cold seasons were more likely to report test results above 4.0 pCi/L, the action level of radon recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. This study may provide the decision-makers in local governments a valuable insight into establishing the radon policies for indoor radon testing and remediation to improve public health.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/28955139

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