Elemental Analysis - Astatine (At)

Astatine is a dangerously radioactive element. It is toxic due to its radioactivity. Only small quantities have been produced to date. Astatine can be obtained in a variety of ways, but not in quantifiable amounts. The isotope Astatine-211 has been produced in nuclear reactors by neutron bombardment of bismuth-200.

Astatine is the rarest element on earth. Only about 25 grams occur naturally on earth at any given time. In fact, very little is known about astatine. Physicists infer most of its properties, such as its radioactive properties, transmission, and color, based on other halogen group members.

This element is highly radioactive and unstable. For this reason, the name astatine was given, based on a Greek word meaning unbalanced.

Astatine is the heaviest known halogen. Halogen elements, including astatine, share similar properties. They are non-metals, have low melting and boiling points, are brittle when solid, are poor conductors of heat and electricity, and are diatomic (their molecules contain two atoms). Among the halogens, astatine is the least reactive and has the most metallic properties compared to the others.

Many physical properties of astatine are unknown today, including its color. Based on other elements in the halogen group, astatine is thought to be dark, possibly near black.

In the tests and analyzes carried out in our organization, which has a wide range of technological equipment, trained and experienced staff and applies the most modern methods, national and international standards and legal regulations in force are complied with. Among the numerous tests carried out in this context, there are also astatine (At) testing services within the framework of elemental analysis.