TRINITITE

Piece of trinitite

Trinitite, also known as atomsite or Alamogordo glass, is the glassy residue left on the desert floor after the plutonium-based Trinity nuclear bomb test on July 16, 1945, near Alamogordo, New Mexico.

The explosion produced a blast equivalent to 18000 tons of TNT. This, in turn singed the land surrounding glazing it to a light olive green, glass-like substance where the sand had melted and solidified again (Trinitite). Trinitite is nearly pure melted silica with traces of olivine, feldspar, and other minerals which comprise the desert sand.

Trinitite may be displayed and handled it safely. Do not break the Trinitite into smaller pieces for it may release dust or small particles. Do not eat or inhale the Trinitite. It is also advisable to keep Trinitite away from children or pets for fear that they might ingest it. Wash your hands after handling. With proper handling Trinitite is completely safe.

Samples of it are sold by Atomic Rock Shop

MATERIAL PROPERTIES

SENSORIAL

Glossiness: Matte.

Translucence: 0%.

Texture: Rough.

Hardness: Hard.

Acoustics: N/A.

Odor: None.

TECHNICAL

Fire resistance: Good.

UV resistance: Good.

Weather resistance: Good.

Scratch resistance: Good.

Chemical resistance: Good.

Weight: Medium.

Renewable: No.

Recyclable: No.

TAGS

Radioactive

Man-made mineral