Exploring the science of radon adsorption: Materials, methodologies, and emerging directions

AbstraktAbstract

Radon, a radioactive noble gas, poses significant health risks due to its link to lung cancer and presents a major challenge in low-background physics experiments, where its decay products contribute to background noise. Developing efficient adsorbent materials for radon mitigation is therefore crucial for both environmental safety and scientific research. However, designing effective radon adsorbents remains challenging due to the low concentration of the gas, its inert nature, and associated health risks. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of radon adsorption on porous materials, with a focus on experimental methodologies, structure-property relationships, and emerging trends in material design. We highlight key material classes, including activated carbons, zeolites, metal-organic frameworks, and other carbon-based adsorbents, evaluating their adsorption performance and practical considerations. Additionally, we explore future directions in radon adsorbent development, discuss improved experimental approaches, and examine insights from xenon adsorption studies as a predictive tool for radon capture. By consolidating current knowledge and identifying critical gaps, this review aims to guide the design of next-generation materials for efficient radon mitigation in environmental, industrial, and scientific applications.

Radon, a radioactive noble gas, poses significant health risks due to its link to lung cancer and presents a major challenge in low-background physics experiments, where its decay products contribute to background noise. Developing efficient adsorbent materials for radon mitigation is therefore crucial for both environmental safety and scientific research. However, designing effective radon adsorbents remains challenging due to the low concentration of the gas, its inert nature, and associated health risks. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of radon adsorption on porous materials, with a focus on experimental methodologies, structure-property relationships, and emerging trends in material design. We highlight key material classes, including activated carbons, zeolites, metal-organic frameworks, and other carbon-based adsorbents, evaluating their adsorption performance and practical considerations. Additionally, we explore future directions in radon adsorbent development, discuss improved experimental approaches, and examine insights from xenon adsorption studies as a predictive tool for radon capture. By consolidating current knowledge and identifying critical gaps, this review aims to guide the design of next-generation materials for efficient radon mitigation in environmental, industrial, and scientific applications.