Effects of activity size distribution on dose conversion factor for radon progeny

To estimate dose from radon progeny, the effective dose per unit exposure to radon progeny (dose conversion factor, DCF) is needed. A dominant parameter related to DCF is the activity size distribution of radon progeny. In the present study, the DCF was calculated in the wide range of particle diameters (0.5-20 nm [AMTD] and 20-5,000 nm [AMAD]), using a dosimetric approach. The calculations were based on a computer program, LUDEP, which implements an ICRP66 respiratory tract model. The calculated results showed that the DCF is sensitive to particle size distribution. The DCFs calculated for reference conditions in mines and homes were 13.7 mSv WLM-1 and 14.3 mSv WLM-1, respectively. These values were in good agreement with those reported in a few references. The DCF calculated in the present study is useful for the dose assessment of radon progeny in places that have different aerosol characteristics. (author)