| Abstract: | SUMMARIES. A survey of over 400 glass, enamel and ceramic objects from museums and private collections was made to investigate the extent of uranium colorants. Widespread use of uranium was found in colored glass, enamels and ceramics produced between the 1830s and 1940s. Simple tests can be used to determine the pres¬ence of uranium in objects. This knowledge can he useful for authentication purposes: the presence of uranium may also compromise thermoluminescence dating of ancient objects stored nearby. Little health risk from ura¬nium-containing objects was found unless many objects were stored in a small area, or if acidic or alkaline foods were stored in them and consumed in quantity.
CONCLUSION. Although uranium was extensively used as a vibrant colorant in glass, glazes and enamels between the 1830s and 1940s, its use throughout the world and its wide color range have only recently been studied. The presence of uranium can be easily deter¬mined without extensive scientific analyses. Objects containing uranium can be identified under ultravi¬olet light, by Geiger counter, or by placing the object in contact with high-speed photographic film. Detection of uranium can assist in authenticating objects or in determining forgeries, reproductions and restorations. Radiation emitted from uranium-containing objects may affect authenticity studies on objects stored next to them by altering their thermoluminescence dates. Both the author's Geiger counter surveys and the scientific literature on the emission of radiation from uranium objects revealed that radiation levels emitted from these objects are well below the doses allowed by the US Nuclear Regulatory Commis¬sion. However, certain precautions should be taken by practising conservators and collection managers, and handling of these objects should be minimized. If large groups of objects with uranium colorants arc to be stored together, a Gcigcr counter survey should be made to determine the level of total radi¬ation in that localized area. Separating objects and storing them apart can reduce high levels of radia¬tion. No foods, especially acidic or alkaline solu¬tions, should be served or stored in objects containing uranium colorants. Display and storage cabinets constructed of glass or metal provide the best insulation from the low-level radiation emitted by uranium-containing objects [55]. |
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