Table 1-2 Alpha Particles - hdbk-1130-98

DOE-HDBK-1130-98

Shielding

Most alpha particles are stopped by a few centimeters of air, a sheet of paper, or the

dead layer (outer layer) of skin.

Alpha particles are not considered an external radiation hazard. This is because they

are easily stopped by the dead layer of skin.

Internally, the source of the alpha radiation is in close contact with body tissue and

can deposit large amounts of energy in a small volume of living body tissue.

Sources

(Insert facility-specif ic information.)

Table 1-2

Alpha Particles

Physical

Large mass (2 protons, 2 neutrons, 0 electrons).

+2 charge.

Characteristics

Very short (about 1-2 inches in air).

Range

Deposits large amount of energy in a short

distance of travel.

Few centimeters of air.

Shielding

Sheet of paper.

Dead layer of skin (outer layer).

No external hazard (dead layer of skin will stop

Biological

alpha particles).

Hazards

Internally, the source of alpha radiation is in close

contact with body tissue. It can deposit large amounts

of energy in a small amount of body tissue.

Insert facility-specific information.

Sources