Predictions for radon sources and some related concentrations for the Koongarra Uranium Development, Northern Territory

Abstract

Estimates are provided for the total quantity of radon that would be released per day as a result of the proposed development of the Koongarra uranium deposit. The estimated quantity varies with the phase of development; it is greatest (560 GBq d-1) during phase II, at which time the ore stockpile and the tailings dam contribute 70% of the total. Predicted concentrations for radon daughters near the bottom of the open pit also vary with phase of development but, in this case, atmospheric stability is the major variable. During phase II, working level (WL) concentrations are expected to vary from 0.035 to 4.6 WL at a height of 1 m above the pit floor as atmospheric stability changes from unstable to neutral conditions.