Radon over Kimberlite Pipes: Surface Field Experiments and Calculations of Vertical Diffusion (Arkhangelsk Diamondiferous Province, NW Russia)

Abstract

We present the results of field and experimental studies to assess the influence on the formation of the radon field over the kimberlite pipes of the Arkhangelsk diamondiferous province. Measurements were made in the field to establish the radon radiation in the soil air and the gas permeability of soils in the area of the Chidvinskaya pipe. Experimental work was aimed at determining the radiation and physical parameters of the rocks occurring within the kimberlite field. Based on a set of field and experimental data, a model of the diffusion transfer of radon in the area of the Chidvinskaya pipe was calculated for three profiles, represented by the rocks of the pipe, sedimentary rocks of the exocontacts of the pipe, and host sandy and clay sedimentary rocks. The results of the calculations show that the rocks of the exocontacts of the pipe have the greatest potential for increased radon radiation. The calculated values of the radon radiation produced by these rocks exceeded 9000 Bq·m−3. The diatreme kimberlites produced the lowest radon radiation. We showed that the source of the increased values of radon radiation is the rocks of the pipe’s exocontacts. This fact will make it possible to use the emanation method as an additional one for the search for kimberlite pipes.

Keywords

• radon
• diffusion
• permeability
• kimberlite pipe
• Arkhangelsk diamondiferous province