A radioactive element with atomic number 95 and symbol Am.
Isotopes of americium, which are formed by neutron capture or by
the decay of 241Pu, are fissionable and may have the
potential to be used in a nuclear explosive device. While not
defined under the IAEA Statute as source material or special
fissionable material, information on separated americium is
collected by the IAEA under voluntary arrangements with relevant
States. Americium has sometimes been referred to as an 'alternative
nuclear material.'