Radon concentration measurements in the desert caves of Saudi Arabia

Beneath the harsh deserts of Saudi Arabia lie dark chambers and complex mazes filled with strange shapes and wondrous beauty. Radon concentration measurements have been carried out in the desert caves of Al-Somman Plateau in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia. Passive radon dosimeters, based on alpha particle etch track detectors with an inlet filter, were used in this study. A total of 59 dosimeters were placed in five caves for a period of six months. Out of 59 dosimeters, 37 could be collected for analysis. Measurements showed significant variations in radon concentrations in caves depending upon their natural ventilation. The results of the study show that the average radon concentration in the different caves ranges from 74 up to 451 Bq m(-3). The average radon concentration in four of the caves was low in the range 74-114 Bq m(-3). However, one cave showed an average radon concentration of 451 Bq m(-3). Radon is not a problem for tourists in the majority of caves. However, sometimes it may imply some limitation to the working time of guides. (c) 2005 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.