What's New?
.	HPS Supports National Radiation Protection Professionals Week 2010
.	September Newsletter
.	September Journal

Upcoming Events
.	International Conference on Radiation Protection in Medicine 1-3 September 2010 Varna, Bulgaria
.	8th South American IRPA Regional Congress 10-15 October 2010 Medelin, Columbia

03 September 2010

Answer to Question #4263 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Industrial Radiation — Industrial Applications

The following question was answered by an expert in the appropriate field:

What industrial uses are made of the radioisotope americium 241? Are there any concerns regarding its chemical properties?

Americium-241 (²⁴¹Am) is used in many detectors to measure (1) smoke in homes, (2) toxic lead in old wall paint, (3) the thickness of foil and paper while in production, and (4) water moisture or hydrocarbons (oil). The first three industrial sources, use the alpha particles or low energy x rays emitted from a sealed source of ²⁴¹Am; while the water/oil gauges mix ²⁴¹Am with beryllium in a sealed source.

The chemical properties of the ²⁴¹Am are of concern if the sealed source leaks and is ingested. Am-241 behaves chemically like calcium and will go to the bones, thus causing the major portion of a person's radiation dose (exposure). The physical properties, specifically particle size, are of concern if the sealed source leaks and is released into the air. The particle size helps to determine how much ²⁴¹Am might be inhaled and where it might be deposited in the lungs, both affecting the persons ultimate radiation dose.

John P. Hageman, MS, CHP

Answer posted on 2 February 2005. The information and material posted on this Web site is intended as general reference information only. Specific facts and circumstances may alter the concepts and applications of materials and information described herein. The information provided is not a substitute for professional advice and should not be relied upon in the absence of such professional advice specific to whatever facts and circumstances are presented in any given situation. Answers are correct at the time they are posted on the Web site. Be advised that over time, some requirements could change, new data could be made available, or Internet links could change. For answers that have been posted for several months or longer, please check the current status of the posted information prior to using the responses for specific applications.