What type of radiation is typically used in industrial radiography?

In industrial radiography, gamma radiation is typically used because of its ability to penetrate materials effectively while simultaneously providing high-resolution images for inspecting the integrity of structures and components. Gamma rays are high-energy electromagnetic waves emitted from the nucleus of radioactive isotopes, such as cobalt-60 or iridium-192, which are commonly employed in the radiographic process. These isotopes produce gamma radiation that can easily travel through dense materials such as metals, enabling the assessment for structural flaws, weld defects, and corrosion without having to dismantle the component being inspected.

Due to their deep penetration and ability to capture clear images, gamma rays are preferred over other types of radiation for this application. In contrast, X-ray radiation, while also useful in some radiographic applications, is more frequently associated with medical imaging and requires specific equipment that is different from that used in industrial settings. Alpha radiation and beta radiation, on the other hand, have limited penetration capabilities and are generally not suitable for examining bulk materials like those found in industrial applications. This makes gamma radiation the optimal choice for the effective and practical needs of industrial radiography.