Po-210

Decay product of uranium thorium or radium. Always present with gamma-emitting decay products. The spectrum is almost identical to that of Radium-226 or natural uranium.

The purified isotope polnium 210 is practically a pure alpha emitter. With a probability of 0.001% it emits a gamma quantum with energy of 803keV, for detection on this line a large activity is needed.

Polonium-210 (Po-210) is a highly radioactive isotope of polonium with a half-life of approximately 138 days. It decays by alpha emission to stable lead-206 (Pb-206), releasing a significant amount of energy. Po-210 is a member of the uranium-238 decay series and is known for its intense alpha radiation, with minimal associated gamma radiation. It is naturally present in trace amounts as part of the decay chains of uranium and thorium.

Po-210 is primarily used in industrial applications, particularly as a heat source in radioisotope thermoelectric generators (RTGs) for space exploration. Its alpha decay produces substantial thermal energy, which can be converted into electricity. Additionally, Po-210 is used in anti-static devices for industrial processes, such as paper and textile manufacturing, where its alpha radiation neutralizes static charges. In research, Po-210 is studied for its radiotoxicity and behavior in natural systems, and it has been historically used in neutron sources when combined with beryllium.

Po-210 occurs naturally in very small amounts as part of the uranium-238 and thorium-232 decay chains. It is found in uranium-rich minerals such as pitchblende and is present in the environment at trace levels, including in soil and water. Po-210 is also present in tobacco leaves, contributing to radiation exposure from smoking. Industrially, it is produced artificially in nuclear reactors by bombarding bismuth-209 with neutrons. Due to its extreme toxicity and high radioactivity, Po-210 is handled in specialized, controlled environments under strict regulations.