An alternative for cost-effective remediation of depleted uranium (DU) at certain environmental restoration sites

Journal Article · Tue Feb 01 04:00:00 EST 2000 · Health Physics

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1097/00004032-200002001-00004· OSTI ID:20014634

Miller, M; Galloway, B; VanDerpoel, G; Johnson, E; Copland, J; Salazar, M

Numerous sites in the United States and around the world are contaminated with depleted uranium (DU) in various forms. A prevalent form is fragmented DU originating from various scientific tests involving high explosives and DU during weapon development programs, at firing practice ranges, or war theaters where DU was used in armor-piercing projectiles. The contamination at these sites is typically very heterogeneous, with discreet, visually identifiable DU fragments mixed with native soil. That is, the bulk-averaged DU activity is quite low, while specific DU fragments, which are distinct from the soil matrix, have much higher specific activity. DU is best known as a dark, black metal that is nearly twice as dense as lead, but DU in the environment readily weathers to a distinctive bright yellow color that is readily visible. While the specific activity of DU is relatively low and presents only a minor radiological hazard, the fact that it is radioactive and visually identifiable makes it desirable to remove the DU contamination from the environment.

• Research Organization: Roy F. Weston, Inc., Albuquerque, NM (US)
• OSTI ID: 20014634
• Journal Information: Health Physics, Journal Name: Health Physics Journal Issue: 2 sup Vol. 78; ISSN HLTPAO; ISSN 0017-9078
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

05 NUCLEAR FUELS
COST
DEPLETED URANIUM
LOW-LEVEL RADIOACTIVE WASTES
RADIATION MONITORING
REMEDIAL ACTION
SOILS