Food irradiation, the use of ionizing radiation to destroy harmful biological organism in food, is a safe, proven process that has many useful applications. It has been endorsed by numerous health organizations and has now been approved for many applications by governments around the world. Electronic Irradiation of Foods describes all the key aspects of electron accelerator technology in detail. It emphasizes the physical science and technology aspects of food irradiation using machine sources of ionizing radiation. The book provides significant technical depth for interested workers and present descriptive, introductory material that should help demystify technology for businessmen to make informed choices regarding important investments decisions. Introductory chapters summarize the effects of ionizing radiation on biological organisms and the organic compounds comprising foods, and give an overview of the food irradiation process. Subsequent chapters cover the details of the electron beam and x-ray energy deposition, electron accelerator technologies, beam scanning systems, material handling systems, shielding design, and process control considerations. Important appendices cover radiation dosimetry, induced radioactivity, and ozone generation.

The use of non-standard technologies such as superconductivity, cryogenics and radiofrequency pose challenges for the safe operation of accelerator facilities that cannot be addressed using only best practice from occupational safety in conventional industry. This book introduces readers to different occupational safety issues at accelerator facilities and is directed to managers, scientists, technical personnel and students working at current or future accelerator facilities. While the focus is on occupational safety – how to protect the people working at these facilities – the book also touches on “machine safety” – how to prevent accelerators from doing structural damage to themselves. This open access book offers a first introduction to safety at accelerator facilities. Presenting an overview of the safety-related aspects of the specific technologies employed in particle accelerators, it highlights the potential hazards at such facilities and current prevention and protection measures. It closes with a review of safety management and organization at accelerator facilities.