Understanding and measuring radon begins with an understanding of radioactivity. For José Luis Gutiérrez Villanueva, a specialist at Radonova Laboratories, a lifelong interest in the subject has now resulted in the publication of Historia de la Radiactividad (History of Radioactivity), released in spring 2026.
The book traces the development of radioactivity from the groundbreaking scientific discoveries of the late nineteenth century to its many applications today in fields such as medicine, research, and industry. It also examines the historical turning points that have made radioactivity both one of science’s most important discoveries and one of its most debated.
A Book Inspired by a Lifelong Interest
The idea for the book emerged during an online meeting with colleagues from the Spanish Physical Society. One of the participants, himself the author of several scientific books, encouraged José Luis to write about the field that has shaped much of his professional career.
“I had wanted to write a book for a very long time. When the opportunity came, it felt like the right moment to finally turn that ambition into reality,” says José Luis Gutiérrez Villanueva.
The book consists of 17 chapters that follow the history of radioactivity from its earliest discoveries to modern-day applications. Along the way, readers are introduced to numerous scientists and historical events that are rarely given the attention they deserve.
“I didn’t want to write a traditional history book. Each chapter can be read independently, and I wanted to highlight many researchers whose contributions were highly significant, but who remain far less well known than figures such as Marie Curie or Ernest Rutherford.”
The Dual Legacy of Radioactivity
One of the book’s central themes is how the same scientific discovery has led to both remarkable medical advances and some of the most devastating events in modern history.
“Radioactivity opened the door to understanding the structure of the atom. It has enabled life-saving medical treatments and technological progress, but it also paved the way for the development of nuclear weapons. That dual legacy has shaped much of modern history.”
An International Commitment to Radon Research
José Luis Gutiérrez Villanueva joined Radonova in 2017 and is now a specialist in radon measurement, natural radioactivity, and statistical analysis. Alongside his work at Radonova, he is actively involved in several international organisations and research initiatives. He is a co-founder of the European Radon Association, Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of the European Radon Association and regularly contributes to international training programmes organised in collaboration with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Before publishing Historia de la Radiactividad, José Luis had already authored more than 30 scientific papers. The book marks his first publication intended for a broader audience.
At present, the book is available in Spanish, but José Luis hopes it will eventually be translated into additional languages.
“I would love to see it published in English, and perhaps even in Swedish. Radioactivity affects far more aspects of our lives than many people realise, and I hope the book will inspire curiosity among students, researchers, and anyone with an interest in science.”
About the Author
José Luis Gutiérrez Villanueva is a specialist at Radonova Laboratories, focusing on radon measurement, natural radioactivity, and statistical analysis. He holds a PhD in Physics from the University of Valladolid and has an extensive international engagement in radon research and radiation protection. In addition to his role at Radonova, he has published more than 30 scientific papers and holds several leading positions in international research organisations.
