Key Issues
Beneficial Uses of Radiation
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Consumer Products and Services
Radioactive materials supply necessities and conveniences that virtually everyone depends on, including:
Economic and Employment Benefits
Each year in the United States, radioactive materials are directly and indirectly responsible for about $420 billion in total industry sales, 4.4 million jobs and $77.8 billion in federal, state and local government tax revenues.
The states reaping the greatest economic benefits from radioactive materials are California, Minnesota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and Washington.
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Consumer Products and Services
Radioactive materials supply necessities and conveniences that virtually everyone depends on, including:
- Many smoke detectors—installed in nearly 90 percent of U.S. homes—rely on a tiny radioactive source to sound an alarm when smoke is present.
- Computer disks “remember” data better when treated with radioactive materials.
- Treating nonstick pans with radiation ensures that the coating will stick to the surface.
- Photocopiers use small amounts of radiation to eliminate static and prevent paper from sticking together and jamming the machine.
- Radiation sterilizes cosmetics, hair products and contact lens solutions, removing irritants and allergens.
- Radioactive materials sterilize medical bandages and a variety of personal health and hygiene products.
Economic and Employment Benefits
Each year in the United States, radioactive materials are directly and indirectly responsible for about $420 billion in total industry sales, 4.4 million jobs and $77.8 billion in federal, state and local government tax revenues.
The states reaping the greatest economic benefits from radioactive materials are California, Minnesota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia and Washington.
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