alpha not gamma
alpha emissions are larger and are stopped easily compared to gamma emissions like uranium which does take thick layers of lead or concrete. Here is the wiki on alpha emissions
Alpha decay - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Alpha emissions are usually stopped by a few inches of air, paper or even your epidermis and since thorium takes a crap ton of time to decay into the next isotope you shouldn't have too many concerns about beta or gamma emitters forming which can be of concern.
So if you do get your hands on a thorium containing mineral just keep it in an altoid tin and use tongs gloves and a long sleeve shirt and feel safe knowing it's overkill.
alpha emissions are larger and are stopped easily compared to gamma emissions like uranium which does take thick layers of lead or concrete. Here is the wiki on alpha emissions
Alpha decay - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Alpha emissions are usually stopped by a few inches of air, paper or even your epidermis and since thorium takes a crap ton of time to decay into the next isotope you shouldn't have too many concerns about beta or gamma emitters forming which can be of concern.
So if you do get your hands on a thorium containing mineral just keep it in an altoid tin and use tongs gloves and a long sleeve shirt and feel safe knowing it's overkill.
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