https://doi.org/10.1140/epjs/s11734-025-01718-5
Regular Article
A preliminary study of indoor radon levels at historical area of Shkodra city
1
IGJEUM, Polytechnic University of Tirana, Sheshi “Nënë Tereza Nr. 4, Tirana, Albania
2
University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina”, Pristina, Kosovo
3
Department of Physics Engineering, Faculty of Mathematics Engineering and Physics Engineering, Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
4
Department of Mathematics Engineering, Faculty of Mathematics Engineering and Physics Engineering, Polytechnic University of Tirana, Tirana, Albania
Received:
1
July
2024
Accepted:
29
May
2025
Published online:
9
June
2025
This study provides preliminary orientation data of indoor radon activity concentrations, in the historical area of Shkodra city, Albania, taken from short-term measurements using active monitor AlphaGUARD PQ2000 PRO. The measurements were conducted in various ground-floor spaces, including entrance halls, rooms, and storage areas within 13 buildings that have recently undergone renovation. The results showed radon concentrations ranging from 42 to 126 Bq m⁻3. To address high uncertainties associated with individual measurements, mean radon concentrations were calculated for each building, enabling more reliable statistical analysis. A Kruskal–Wallis test revealed significant differences in radon levels among the buildings (p value = 0.0058), with post-hoc analysis identifying notable variations between specific pairs of buildings. The historical buildings were found to have lower radon concentrations compared to contemporary structures, likely due to the use of dense construction materials and restoration. Although these findings indicate no immediate health concerns, long-term monitoring is recommended to capture temporal variations and enhance the accuracy of risk assessments. Such efforts will support evidence-based decisions for public health and the preservation of historical heritage.
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© The Author(s), under exclusive licence to EDP Sciences, Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature 2025
Springer Nature or its licensor (e.g. a society or other partner) holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.
