The radioactivity of thorium mainly refers to the natural radioactivity of thorium itself, which may pose potential risks to human health and environmental safety. Specifically:
Radioactive properties of thorium
Thorium (Th, atomic number 90) is a weakly radioactive element, mainly existing in the isotope of thorium-232, with an extremely long half-life (about 1.4×10^10 years), which is a natural radioactive substance. Thorium releases α particles (alpha rays), small amounts of β particles, and γ rays during decay.
Forms of existence in thorium tungsten electrodes
Thorium tungsten electrodes doped with thorium oxide (ThO₂) contain trace amounts of radionuclides, and although the overall radioactivity level is low, dust containing radioactive particles will be produced during the production, processing and use of electrodes, especially during grinding.
Potential health risks
Inhalation of thorium-containing dust may cause radiation damage to the human lungs, and long-term exposure increases the risk of lung disease and lung cancer. External radiation is usually low and has little impact on general users, but it needs to be protected when processing or in large quantities of contact.
Environmental safety considerations
If thorium dust is not properly treated, it may pollute the working environment and surrounding environment, and corresponding dust prevention, leakage prevention and waste management measures should be taken.
Protective measures
When producing and using thorium tungsten electrodes, they should be equipped with good ventilation and dust collection systems, and staff should wear protective gear to avoid inhaling dust. Waste thorium tungsten electrodes and related waste materials should be disposed of in accordance with the regulations on the management of radioactive materials.
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