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The primary difference between a nuclear bomb and a dirty bomb lies in the nature of the damage they cause. In a nuclear explosion, a significant portion of the damage occurs at the moment of detonation due to the shockwave, heat, and intense radiation; whereas with a dirty bomb, the main concern is the dispersal of radioactive materials and the resulting environmental contamination.

Ultimately, a dirty bomb is significant not so much for its explosive power as for its capacity to cause contamination, public fear, and widespread disruption in an area. For this reason, the possibility of its use remains a constant security concern.

Strontium-90 is one of the most dangerous radionuclides produced by the nuclear fission of uranium-235; it replaces bone calcium in the human body and causes cancer.

Strontium-90 It is also available as strontium carbonate and strontium titanate. It is highly toxic. It is found in the fallout from nuclear explosions. It is absorbed by plants and, upon entering the body, affects the bone marrow and has lethal effects.

Strontium-90 (Sr-90) is a soft metal used as an energy source because it generates heat as it decays. Sr-90 can cause cancer in the bones, bone marrow, and soft tissues surrounding the bones. During decay, it can cause burns to the eyes and skin.

Strontium-90 properties

Half-life: 29.1 years

Mode of decay: Beta radiation

Chemical properties: Chemically reactive; can create halide, oxide, and sulfide compounds

Appearance: In its pure form, Sr-90 is a soft, shiny silver metal, but it quickly changes to yellow when exposed to air.

Sr-90 is a soft metal. It can be present in dust from nuclear fission after detonation of nuclear weapons or a nuclear power plant accident.

Risks

Sr-90 can be inhaled, but ingestion in food and water is the greatest health concern. Once in the body, Sr-90 acts like calcium and is readily incorporated into bones and teeth, where it can cause cancers of the bone, bone marrow, and soft tissues around the bone.

Sr-90 decays to yttrium 90 (Y-90), which in turn decays by beta radiation. Wherever Sr-90 is present Y-90 is also present. Because of the beta radiation, Y-90 poses a risk of burns to the eyes and on the skin from external exposure.

In radiation-related emergencies, such as the explosion of a "dirty bomb," you may be instructed to go inside a building and take shelter rather than leaving the area. Building walls can block much of the harmful radiation. Once inside, move to the basement or the center of the building. Radioactive material settles on the exterior of buildings, so it is best to stay as far away from the walls and roof as possible. Since radioactive material weakens over time, remaining indoors for at least 24 hours can protect you until it is safe to leave the area.