Plutonium Plutonium Plutonium, Pu, is a dense silvery radioactive metallic transuranic element, found in the actinide series of inner transition metals in Group IIIa of the periodic table. 20 Plutonium and its compounds are radioactive and they are also highly toxic.
Extreme care is required when handling materials containg plutonium.
Occurrence Plutonium exists in trace quantities in Uranium ores, and is present in the spent fuel from nuclear reactors. Manufacture Plutonium is prepared in nuclear breeder reactors. Properties Plutonium is silvery metal, is reactive and tarnished in air, is warm to the touch due to the heat evolved in its radioactive decay, and readily dissolves in mineral acids. Reactions Uses Plutonium is used as a fuel in nuclear reactors, and in nuclear weapons. All Rights Reserved.