Overview
Thorium is a naturally occurring radioactive actinide with potential use in alternative nuclear fuel cycles and diverse industrial applications.
Properties
It typically exhibits a +4 oxidation state, forms stable oxides and has a long half life making it a persistent environmental radionuclide.
Occurrence and Uses
Found in monazite and other minerals, thorium has been used in high temperature ceramics, mantles and is studied for thorium based nuclear reactors.
Isotopes and Safety
Thorium 232 is long lived and weakly radioactive; handling and disposal require radiological controls and consideration of long term environmental stewardship.