Hermann Sicius presents the reader with all the important information about a significant class of metallic raw materials in a concise manner. Of the eighteen metals in the actinide series and the third transition group, all are largely unknown except for thorium, uranium, and perhaps plutonium. Despite their often extremely complex production processes, there are highly interesting applications for these often highly radioactive elements, even in non-military, i.e., peaceful uses. Did you know about the use of americium in radionuclide batteries? Or about bombarding atoms of einsteinium with smaller atomic nuclei to create elements of even higher atomic numbers? No? Then let yourself be introduced to the fascinating world of these heavy atomic nuclei! Don’t be afraid of radioactivity! The author describes the current situation and provides a glimpse into the future.