Ni-63

Nickel-63 (Ni-63) is a radioactive isotope of nickel with a half-life of approximately 100.1 years. It decays by beta emission, producing low-energy beta particles and transforming into stable copper-63 (Cu-63). Ni-63 does not emit significant gamma radiation, making it suitable for applications where minimal external radiation exposure is required. It is produced artificially in nuclear reactors by neutron activation of stable nickel-62 (Ni-62).

Ni-63 is primarily used in industrial and security applications. It is an essential component in electron capture detectors (ECDs) used for detecting trace amounts of chemical substances, such as pesticides and narcotics, in gas chromatography. Ni-63 is also utilized in beta-voltaic batteries, where its beta emissions generate electricity for long-lived, low-power devices, including space probes and remote sensors. Additionally, it is employed in nuclear instrumentation and calibration of radiation detection equipment. In security applications, Ni-63 is used in explosives detection systems, where its beta radiation ionizes air to help identify hazardous materials.

Ni-63 does not occur naturally and is produced artificially in nuclear reactors through neutron activation of Ni-62. It is encountered in industrial laboratories, research facilities, and nuclear instrumentation applications. Due to its long half-life and low-energy beta radiation, Ni-63 is considered relatively safe to handle under controlled conditions. However, its use is regulated to ensure proper containment and disposal to prevent environmental contamination.