Polonium is readily dissolved in dilute acids, but is only slightly soluble in alkalis. Polonium can be mixed or alloyed with beryllium to provide a source of neutrons. It is also used on brushes for removing dust from photographic films. The polonium for these is carefully sealed and controlled, minimizing hazards to the user. Polonium-210 is very dangerous to handle in even milligram or microgram amounts, and special equipment and strict control is necessary.
Damage arises from the complete absorption of the energy of the alpha particle into tissue.