Leaching of Uranium from Glass and Ceramic Foodware and Decorative Items

Leaching of Uranium from Glass and Ceramic Foodware and Decorative Items

Nuclear Science and Fine Art

An examination of uranium leaching from glass and ceramic items, testing 35 uranium-containing samples including glassware and Fiestaware when exposed to acidic solutions. The study documents uranium content and leaching characteristics through detailed measurements, with particular focus on red-orange Fiesta ceramic pieces that showed significant uranium levels. The authors conclude that while uranium ingestion hazards are generally minimal under normal use, significant leaching occurs when acidic solutions contact uranium-bearing glazes, suggesting these items may be more suitable for display rather than food service.

Landa, Edward R. and Terry B. Councell

Health Physics: The Radiation Protection Journal, vol. 63, no. 3, Sept 1992

The Health Physics Society

September 1992