Tom,

Radioactive material is regulated everywhere in the US by the NRC (Nuclear Regulatory Commission) either themselves or through state agreements.

As far as the cool little luminous sources go, you are correct in that the manufacturer has to get a general license for the device from the NRC. Like most dealings with bureaucracy, this takes time and money, and most manufacturers don't see it as worth the trouble for the amount of money that they may make. You are correct that it is foolish to limit such products when they pose absolutely no hazard to human health or the environment. But such is what happens as government grows.

And exactly how long of a half life do you think you need anyway? Twelve years isn't good enough for you? They may get a little dimmer, but you can probably still use a glow ring for out to 50 years or so (depends on how much they start out with). <img src="images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I guess I shouldn't complain too much about all these stupid regulations, since they pay me alot of money to keep my employer in compliance, but it still irks me if I think about it too much.

Take care...

Greg