Ra226 Testing

Radiation is literally all around us. It’s a naturally occurring phenomenon which takes place when an atom has an excess of neutrons (neutrally charged particles) or protons (positively charged particles). In these cases, the atom is unstable (radioactive) and it will emit radiation energy as it sheds these extra particles until it eventually becomes stable. This process is called radioactive decay.

Radium-226 is part of the uranium decay chain. Uranium is quite prevalent throughout the rock of the Canadian Shield and mining processes that expose concentrated piles of at-depth rock to surface conditions may have increased levels of Ra-226 in their tailings, runoff and effluent.

Testmark can help your operation remain informed and compliant with Ra-226 testing. At certain concentrations, this isotope can lead to genetic mutations and growth abnormalities. The disposal or storage of waste rock and overburden, along with milling and extracting activities from mining operations may artificially accelerate the liberation of naturally occurring radium, which makes regular testing a strict requirement.