Residual radioactivity of treated green diamonds. (August 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cassette, Philippe; Notari, Franck; Lépy, Marie-Christine; Caplan, Candice; Pierre, Sylvie; Hainschwang, Thomas; Fritsch, Emmanuel
• Is Part Of: Applied radiation and isotopes. Volume 126(2017:Aug.)
• Page Start: 66
• Page End: 72
• Publication Date: 2017-08
• Subjects: Treated diamond -- Radioactive gemstones -- 226Ra -- 210Pb -- 210Po; Radiology -- Periodicals; Radiation -- Industrial applications -- Periodicals; Nuclear chemistry -- Periodicals; Internet resource; Periodical; 660.298
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apradiso.2017.01.026
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0969-8043

Abstract

Abstract: Treated green diamonds can show residual radioactivity, generally due to immersion in radium salts. We report various activity measurements on two radioactive diamonds. The activity was characterized by alpha and gamma ray spectrometry, and the radon emanation was measured by alpha counting of a frozen source. Even when no residual radium contamination can be identified, measurable alpha and high-energy beta emissions could be detected. The potential health impact of radioactive diamonds and their status with regard to the regulatory policy for radioactive products are discussed. Highlights: Various activity measurements on two treated radioactive diamonds are reported. Activity characterized by alpha and gamma ray spectrometry and radon emanation. Potential health impact of radioactive diamonds are discussed.