Researchers from the Statens Byggeforskningsinstitut (SBi) have tested ten different membrane systems for radon protection. The evaluation measured the ability of materials to ensure airtightness of walls and floors.
Among the tested systems, BetaPack’s complete radon-protection system was classified in Class 2, which denotes a “very airtight membrane system”.
The project was launched because earlier investigations (Jensen & Gunnarsen, 2008) revealed that existing buildings constructed under older building regulations (pre-BR 2010) do not necessarily meet the radon-protection requirements applied to new buildings.
The testing of membrane systems is a key tool in assessing whether a system solution for radon protection—based on airtight construction—is suitable for the intended effect of preventing radon ingress into the indoor environment.
Radon is a radioactive, health-hazardous gas that occurs naturally in the ground and can enter buildings through construction defects. Figures from the Sundhedsstyrelsen estimate that radon contributes to around 300 new cases of lung cancer each year in Denmark.
There was considerable variation in the results among the ten tested membrane systems in the SBi study.
BetaPack’s complete membrane system for radon protection offers an accessible, streamlined solution with buildability and high quality in focus. We are proud to present our products in many of the major building-material chains.
If you would like further details about BetaPack’s radon-protection system or its application, please contact us at +45 7020 8700 or info@betapack.dk. We can also assist you in locating your nearest retailer.
Since 1998, the Danish Building Regulations have required radon protection in all new buildings. In 2010, the regulation was clarified to specify that the indoor radon concentration must not exceed 100 Bq/m³ (Becquerel – the unit of radioactivity). In 2018, the requirement was further defined to state that this limit applies to the estimated annual average.
These radon protection requirements apply to all new constructions and major renovations, and must be maintained throughout the building’s lifetime.
With the recent study from the Danish Building Research Institute (SBi), clients and developers are now able to request documentation. The SBi report provides building professionals with the necessary insight to evaluate whether a membrane system is capable of effectively preventing radon ingress into the indoor environment.