chippyfly
786
Not only Alpha
Gamma radiation is emitted by radium 226 in the luminous paint and that is what is detected. Emitted beta radiation is not detected by the Geiger. Alpha is absorbed by the watch casing etc but there is the creation of Radon gas within the watch, which can leak out. The Geiger counter Radex 1503 shown also detects X-rays but that is not relevant here. There is nothing wrong with my Geiger counter. When flying above 30,000' the Radex 1503 also detects gamma radiation from space. You may be surprised at the total dose received on a long flight across the oceans! Also some ceramic pottery and yellow glassware (eg uranium glass) emits gamma radiation.
Clive
G-P Gyromatic ref: 7317 dilemma
On this forum I had expressed my concerns about the radioactivity emanating from my G-P ref: 7317 Gyromatic. I store most of my small watch collection on cushions in individual wooden boxes with hinged transparent lids that all fit neatly together, twelve...
I thought radium underwent alpha decay?
And alpha particles were stopped by a sheet of paper, non-penetrative, and the risk was in inhalation or ingestion? How are they even escaping the watch itself?
I too thought that radium underwent alpha decay...
Perhaps the geiger counter is in need of calibration?
Not only Alpha
Gamma radiation is emitted by radium 226 in the luminous paint and that is what is detected. Emitted beta radiation is not detected by the Geiger. Alpha is absorbed by the watch casing etc but there is the creation of Radon gas within the watch, which can...
Here's the decay series for Radium 226
www.ld-didactic.de Interesting! A lead-lined box is likely sufficient, maybe store it away from where you normally sit. Also, I would strongly advise against licking the hands of the watch. Don't do it!
Can I wear my Gyromatic?
Here is a link to a long report that may explain answers to my questions but I do not understand the measurement units described with relation to µSv/hour: RADIUM TIMEPIECE DOSE MODELING Prepared by A. J. Boerner, CHP M. A. Buchholz
I have several watches like those, I mean with radium indices and hands. And my health is still ok. I just don't wear them every day for a long period.
The thing is that if you are worried about that, you should sell it, certainly on redial it. The watch looses all its interest if you touch its " integrity ", here, the dial. Best, Nicolas
Thanks Nicolas. Not touching the dial is what I want. I only wear the watch for a few times and for only very short periods because it is a lovely watch to wear, keeping good time. [nt]
I will continue to store my Gyromatic in its sophegus and not worry!