Experimental evaluation of radon detector performance under controlled conditions: Statistical assessment and calibration strategy

This work presents a quantitative evaluation of radon detectors under controlled environmental conditions using the RDN-SENUBIO-UPV radon chamber. The study emphasizes the statistical assessment of spatial radon distribution and the comparative sensitivity analysis of multiple detector models against a high-precision AlphaGUARD monitor. A comprehensive methodology is developed, involving the calculation of relative errors, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and normality testing (Kolmogorov–Smirnov), to assess measurement consistency. Moreover, individual correction factors are derived and validated through repeated experimental trials to improve the accuracy of time-dependent measurements. The proposed calibration protocol enhances measurement reliability by accounting for detector-specific response dynamics and environmental transients. The results support the implementation of reproducible correction schemes and contribute to improved quality assurance practices in radon monitoring. The approach provides a rigorous statistical framework applicable to other radiation detection systems. • Spatial homogeneity verified in a 1 m 3 radon chamber using a 61-unit CR-39 array. • KS and ANOVA confirm normality and no significant vertical gradients in concentration. • Active monitors (Radon Scout Plus, AlphaE, two RAD7) benchmarked vs AlphaGUARD reference. • Phase-dependent errors characterized: startup and turbulent decay show largest deviations. • Detector-specific correction factors reduce intermediate-phase errors to ∼4–5%. • Operational guidance: allow > 2 h stabilization; apply corrections for extended measurements