You can take part in radon research
Wondering whether granite in your house might be contributing significant radon to your home?
So is a Minnesota radon expert. Specifically, he's looking for data from homes with particular types of granite and particular situations, such as large amounts of granite, granite flooring or small, tightly sealed homes with minimal ventilation. If your home fits the criteria, he will supply you with a free, in-home testing equipment, provided that you're willing to follow the testing instructions and pay return postage.
"They have to be an active participant," said Daniel Steck, physics professor at St. John's University in Collegeville and head of the Minnesota Radon Project.
TYPES OF GRANITE: Steck is interested in testing the following: Bordeaux, Crema Bordeaux (sometimes called Crema Azul Bahil, Creme Azul Bahia or Bahia Cream), Crystal Gold, Four Seasons, Gabarone, Giallo Vyara (sometimes called Juparana Vyara, Golden Vyara or Giallo Vyara), Juparana Bordeaux (sometimes called Juparana Florencia Bordeaux or Siena Rouge), Juparana Golden, Juparana Persa, Juparana Tier, Kashmir Gold, Madura Gold, Mascarello, Namibian Gold (sometimes called Golden Namibia), Niagara Gold, Nile Gold, Sage Brush, Shiva, Shivakashi, Typhoon Green and Yellow River.
FREE TEST KIT: If you have one of these types of granite, that doesn't mean you have a problem, just that you should probably test your home for radon. To apply for a free test kit, visit www.csbsju.edu/MNradon.
KIM PALMER