Radioactive Sources

Whspa · Post by **Whspa** » 03 Aug 2006, 12:22

Are the 'plug and pin' sources of americium, caesium etc considered sealed sources?
Are they supposed to be opened for use?
I also have a small jar of an unidentified grey powder in the box of sources.
How can I identify and/or dispose of it?

juliem · Post by **juliem** » 03 Aug 2006, 13:11

Hi Wspa
they are sealed sources and are used as is, the americium is what was used in the cloud chamber pracs for physics Yr12 which the teachers have just completed
regarding the grey powder probably best to seal it in a container and mark 'unknown' ready for DET collection * whenever that happens???
regards juliem

Whspa · Post by **Whspa** » 03 Aug 2006, 13:35

Thanks again, juliem!
The last teacher to use these sources had left the 'plug and pin' sources pulled apart, so I wasn't sure if that was how they were used.
Regards
Carol

juliem · Post by **juliem** » 03 Aug 2006, 20:02

Hi Wspa
Guess you might have to purchase replacement, check with ?? Lucas Heghts Nuclear facilty for advice on the sources safety
The DET Working with Physics equipment book does recommend replacement of these sources every 10yrs as there half life reduces the efficiency and possible display for the cloud chamber prac
regards juliem