Related Experiment Videos
Radon and thoron emanation from uranium-glazed tableware
M E Kitto1, C A McNulty, C O Kunz
1Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany 12201, USA.
Health Physics
|May 1, 1996
Summary
Radon and thoron gas emanation from uranium-rich ceramic glazes was studied. Despite high uranium levels detected by gamma spectroscopy, no radioactive gases were observed, contradicting prior findings.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Radiological Health
Background:
- Ceramic glazes can contain uranium, posing potential radiological risks.
- Previous studies suggested radioactive gas emanation from such materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify radon and thoron gas emanation from ceramic tableware with elevated uranium levels.
- To verify or refute previous reports on radioactive gas release from glazed ceramics.
Main Methods:
- Utilized alpha-scintillation cells for sensitive detection of radioactive gases.
- Employed gamma spectroscopy to determine uranium concentrations in ceramic glazes.
Main Results:
- Significant uranium concentrations were confirmed in the ceramic glazes via gamma spectroscopy.
- No detectable emanation of radon or thoron gases was observed from the tableware.
- Findings contradict previous reports suggesting radioactive gas release.
Conclusions:
- Ceramic tableware with elevated uranium levels in glazes may not pose a significant radon/thoron emanation risk.
- Further investigation is needed to understand the discrepancy with previous studies.
- This study highlights the importance of direct measurement over assumptions regarding radioactive gas release.