What Makes Granite Radioactive

However it is undeniable that granite does contain radioactive materials some more so than others do.

What makes granite radioactive. Some of these elements can decay into radon gas over time. Granite contains radioactive materials. The minerals present in all natural stones contain very small amounts of the radioactive elements uranium thorium and potassium 40. Granite is a natural source of radiation like most natural stones.

Potassium 40 is a radioactive isotope of weak emission and a constituent of alkali feldspar which in turn is a common component of granitic rocks more abundant in alkali feldspar granite and syenites. All granite and most earthen materials contain trace amounts of uranium and radium emit gamma radiation and release radon gas. Granite like any other stone may contain veins of naturally occurring radioactive elements like uranium thorium and their radioactive decay products. How does the radioactive properties inherent in this stone pose a risk to.

With the concern over the radioactive risk potential of granite countertops it is important to remember that we are always exposed to a certain level of background radiation. Granite is the most abundant type of natural stone in the world. However keep in mind that avoiding granite countertops does not mean you avoid radiation or radon gas emissions in your home. After all there are always exceptions to the rule.

It does pay to find out for sure if there are harmful levels of radioactive elements in your granite countertops. And note that the epa advises that all homes be tested for radon regardless of countertop material. Grand central terminal in nyc is made of granite. Radioactive minerals in the granite can decay into radon a colorless odorless radioactive gas which may be released from the surface of the granite over.

If you re interested in exotic granite or worried about your existing countertops testing for both radon and radiation makes sense. The question details continue. Its used to make countertops and used extensively in construction. The lowdown on granite radiation.

What makes granite radioactive. It forms as a result of magma cooling over millions of years under intense pressure and heat. These trace concentrations may vary from stone to stone or even within a single slab of granite.