Atomic Energy in the Graphic Arts.

The applications of atomic energy to the Graphic Arts Industry may be tentatively divided into three main categories: the applications of radioactive materials as tracers, the use of gauges employing radioactivity, and static eliminators. The use of radioelements as tracers includes such studies as ink distribution on presses and plates, lithographic surface activation, wear, adhesion, absorption and adherences tests, water creep, color migration, dyeing operations, and film and gelatin distribution and breakdown. Radioactive thickness gauges have been used in a variety of different ways. The measurement of ink films, paper, glass, metal, gelatin, coatings, and density of fluids and liquid levels are but a few. Perhaps the greatest industrial application of radioactivity to date in the Graphic Arts has been in the form of radioactive static eliminators. Many new and ingenious modifications are now installed in field tests. The utilization of radioisotopes from Oak Ridge along with Polonium and Radium D has seriously reduced if not completely eliminated the radiation hazards normally associated with static eliminators. Like-wise the use of blower type units has eliminated static in locations never before accessible. The expanding use of atomic energy in the Graphic Arts is inevitable. The big problem is not application and utilization but rather education.