My grandmother has Plutonium in her garden.

[reptkeu]

Hello,
More seriously, my grandmother does not have this in her garden. I am looking to know what it's imply if normal citizens were to get hold of little quantities of these.

I am an interaction designer who needs to understand a few things about nuclear physics in order to validate some idea I have for a project. I have done my research on the internet, but everything is either too complex to understand, doesn't address the right points, or is over-simplified.
Could you indicate me a good repository or source of simplified knowledge on the internet?

I mainly need to understand the risks implied if average citizens were to get hold of high-level nuclear waste (plutonium, uranium).
How easy/difficult to make a bomb? Is there a way to secure radioactive waste so it doesn't allow transformation into explosive (while remaining radioactive).

 

[Greg Bernhardt]

The transfer of plutonium is strictly controlled in the US. The average citizen does not have permission to obtain it.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plutonium

Physics Forums can help you no further.

 

[raining Pete]

Hello there,

I'm not an expert in nuclear physics, but I can point you in the right direction for some simplified information. One good source is the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's website, which has a section specifically for the general public that explains the basics of nuclear materials and their risks. Another good resource is the Union of Concerned Scientists, which has a section on nuclear weapons and materials that breaks down the science in a more accessible way.

In terms of the risks of handling high-level nuclear waste, it's important to note that these materials are highly radioactive and can be extremely dangerous if not handled properly. As for making a bomb, it's not as simple as just getting your hands on some nuclear waste. It requires advanced knowledge and expertise in nuclear physics and engineering, as well as access to specialized materials and equipment.

In terms of securing radioactive waste, there are measures that can be taken to prevent it from being transformed into an explosive, but it is still important to handle and store it properly to avoid any potential risks. I highly recommend consulting with experts in the field to ensure proper handling and disposal of nuclear waste.

I hope this helps point you in the right direction for your project. Best of luck with your research!