How radioactive is DU?
While DU’s radioactivity can be calculated to be about 60% of natural uranium, because it is depleted in the Isotope U235 it is still a cause for concern. The main hazard is from alpha radiation, which is released when U238 decays into Thorium 234. Alpha particles are high-speed helium nuclei (two protons and two neutrons). Because alpha particles are both large (relative to other forms of particle radiation) and carry a large charge, they cannot travel particularly far through substances. However, they can transfer much higher charges to a target over short distances compared to other forms of Ionising radiation such as beta and gamma radiation. This makes alpha particles very dangerous when they are Inhaled or Ingested as they can target the body’s cells without being impeded by the skin. DU also produces beta and gamma radiation as it decays. Over time, uranium decays into a series of different elements by releasing radiation. This means that as soon as DU leaves the factory it is a
