Answer to Question #5705 Submitted to "Ask the Experts"

Category: Consumer Products — Radioactive Ceramics

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

I have a large collection of glassware, particulary "vaseline" glass from pre-WWII, thus containing uranium oxide. For enjoyment and company eye openers, I keep five fluorescent shop lights on it almost 24/7. My questions are (1) is this too much human exposure? and (2) is it possible to "burn out" if exposed to fluorescent lighting all of the time?

You don't need to worry. The glow produced by the fluorescent lights is not ionizing radiation, but ordinary light. And it is not possible to "burn out" the uranium fluorescence even if kept under fluorescent lights 24/7. But just how big is your collection? If you have dozens of items containing uranium oxide, you may wish to get a professional evaluation of the associated radiation field. Your state health department can help with this.Ron Kathren, CHP

Editor's Note: Ask the Experts Question 3433 gives more information on vaseline glass.

Answer posted on August 21, 2006. 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.