Connected sensor provides faster action against radon

Thu 26 Oct 2017 15:41

STC and partner company MidDec have developed a radon sensor that enables faster action to clean radon. The sensor is connected to a web page and gives measurement results immediately, which is to be compared with other measurement methods where the result takes several months.

Radonsensor

- By developing this sensor, we contribute to significantly reducing the process of radon remediation, which is important from a public health perspective. We have a long-term collaboration with MidDec and now we have together developed a product that may be available to anyone to use, says Mattias O'Nils, Professor at STC Research Centre.


Every year, hundreds of people in Sweden suffer from lung cancer as a result of exposure to radon. Radon is found naturally in the bedrock and in buildings built with so-called "blue concrete". Today, radon measurement is usually done by means of so-called "radon pucks" which collect data in the building for 2-3 months and then the pucks are sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Göran Thungström and Örjan Martelleur, developer of the radon sensor and founder of MidDec.

- In the long run, our radon sensor can be connected to the ventilation system in larger properties. By an immediate transfer of measurement results, then ventilation can be controlled so that the fan system works in those parts of the property where you see elevated values of radon and where it needs to be ventilated more, says Örjan Martelleur, CEO of MidDec Scandinavia AB.

The radon sensor does not weigh more than 250 grams and has outer dimensions 10 times 15 centimeters, making it removable. The sensor is constantly connected to a web page and therefore it is possible to measure precision on small surfaces and get instant results directly on the mobile phone. This means, in turn, that the measures that may need to be introduced to remediate a space or property become more effective.

- One of my colleagues recently tested the sensor at home. The measured values showed the presence of radon and, as he was able to move around the meter and get direct results, he quickly realized that the radon penetrated from the ground below the patio. He covered the ground and could immediately see that the measured values fell, says Mattias O'Nils, Professor Mittuniversity.

The connected version of the radon sensor will be tested in the fall and then upgraded to a commercial product at MidDec.

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The page was updated 2/22/2018