Radioactivity Measurements of Zirconia Powders

Partially Stabilized Zirconia (PSZ) ceramics are proposed as an alternative material to the A12O3 components now used in prosthetic devices, for their better toughness and wear resistance compared to the Alumina ones. Due to the fact that to Zirconium may be associated a low content of actinides, it is worthwhile to assess the total radioactivity of PSZ materials to be used in biomedical applications. Measurements were performed on four PSZ samples, two coming from the market and two manufactured by Gel Supported Precipitation (GSP) process by TEMAV SpA. Natural radioactivity of bone was measured and results are reported for comparison. Measurements were performed by HPGe detectors, coincidence connected with a Nal (30.5 × 30.5) cm Compton suppressor, thus enhancing sensitivity to 5×10-4Bq.