Number: RS21528
Title: Terrorist Dirty Bombs: A Brief Primer
Authors: Jonathan Medalia, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Many, rightly or wrongly, fear a terrorist attack with a radiological dispersal device (RDD). RDDs may scatter radioactive material with an explosive (a dirty bomb) or other means. Radioactive atoms are unstable; as they decay, they emit electromagnetic radiation or subatomic particles that can damage cells. Many legitimate activities worldwide use radioactive material. Dealing with RDDs involves controlling sources, detecting radiation, and preparing for and responding to an attack.
Pages: 6
Date: Updated April 1, 2004