Analysis of radon concentration and gamma dose rate in residential houses of Ambon and Seram Islands, Maluku

Radon concentration analysis in the residential houses in Ambon and Seram Island Maluku through the passive method using the CR-39 nuclear track detector has been studied. The CR-39 nuclear track detector was installed inside the residential houses for 3 months. After that time, the detector was taken and etched using 6.25 N NaOH solution. The nuclear track of radon in the CR-39 was read under a microscope with 400 times magnification. From the results of reading the track of radon concentration in the houses was calculated. The results of the analysis showed that radon concentrations in the residential houses of Ambon and Seram Islands, Maluku was at the low level with the range of 2.56 ± 0.18 Bq/m to 59.65 ± 4.22 Bq/m and an average of 28.42 ± 1.98 Bq/m. The average concentration of radon is still below the average value radon concentration recommended by UNSCEAR was 300 Bq/m. The value of dose received by the population due to exposure of radon and gamma radiation in the range of 0.90-1.44 mSv/year. The data shows that radon concentration value is proportional to total radiation doses received by the population for a year. This data can be used in the study of radiation safety for the Ministry of Health and as a contribution to Indonesia in the international community about monitoring environmental radiation from radon concentrations in residential houses