“mesathoriums are decay product of thorium and produce isotopes of either radium and actinium = both radioactive – but with a shorter half life. 2 years cf 1600 years
The radiation decay of radium is alpha and beta – the issue here is the beta. Fortunately not gamma.
mesa thorium and radium are both beta emitters.
Most radiation detectors do not pick up alpha – only beta. Most alpha will not get through the instrument casing and glass.
So the issue with instruments is beta emission – Either avoid/remove them or shield them.”
There is a degree of confusion and inaccuracy creeping in here.:mad:
1. Mesothorium is an outdated term for either Radium226 or Actinium226.
2. Radium as applied to instruments is most certainly a strong gamma emitter. Gamma radiation is the most penetrating and will not be stopped by a pane of glass or sheetmetal. All radiation detectors are sensitive to gamma, some are somewhat sensitive to beta and may be sensitive to alpha. No alpha will penetrate an instrument case.
3. The issue is not beta. It is (a) gamma which is hard to shield but decreases markedly with distance and (b) alpha which is safe if sealed but dangerous if inhaled or ingested either as dust or Radon gas.
see this link for some expert advice http://www.hps.org/publicinformation/ate/q133.html
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