Which type of radiation is primarily used in industrial radiography?

In industrial radiography, gamma radiation is primarily used due to its penetrating power and ability to provide high-resolution images of materials. Gamma rays, which are a form of electromagnetic radiation, can pass through dense materials, making them ideal for inspecting welds, structures, and components without damaging them. This characteristic is particularly important in quality control, where the integrity of the materials being examined needs to be assessed without altering or destroying them.

While x-ray radiation is also used in some applications, gamma radiation sources, such as cobalt-60 or iridium-192, are favored in many industrial settings because they offer a more effective solution for achieving deeper penetration with fewer safety concerns regarding equipment maintenance and operational complexities. The use of gamma radiation allows for greater flexibility in fieldwork, as these sources can be easier to transport and operate in various conditions compared to x-ray machines that require electric power and more extensive shielding.

It's important to know that alpha and beta radiation are not used in industrial radiography primarily due to their lower penetration abilities; alpha particles can be stopped by paper or skin, and beta particles have limited penetration depth, making them unsuitable for the inspection of thick materials. Hence, gamma radiation is recognized as the standard in the field for achieving reliable results in non-des