Radiation in Scrap Metal | eHow.com

Radiation in Scrap Metal | eHow.com: "Radiation in Scrap Metal
By Kay Tang, eHow Contributor
updated: April 20, 2010

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, millions of metric tons of iron and steel scrap---automobiles, cans, appliances, construction materials, etc.---are recycled annually in the United States. Radioactive scrap not only endangers the health of exposed workers and the environment but also impacts the foundry and steel-making industries. Cleanup can cost millions of dollars. Due to increased international trade of radioactive scrap, industries and governments alike are growing more concerned.

Contamination
Naturally occurring radiation (NORM) will show up in scrap from particular sectors such as the military and the oil and medical industries. According to Steve Sterenka with RaddComm Systems, a Canadian supplier of radiation detection equipment, radium 226 shows up in military scrap. However, lead-sealed sources---radiography cameras---are the worst offenders. The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) illustrates three ways that scrap becomes contaminated: 1) materials with low levels of radioactivity fall below limits set by regulations; 2) scrap mixed with radioactive sources is stolen or lost; and, 3) contaminated material from industrial processes infuses the scrap strea"

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