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Radon emanation from domestic uranium ores determined by modifications of the closed-can, gamma-only assay method. Report of investigations 1977

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6538567
Emanation coefficients of 950 samples of domestic uranium ore were successfully and rapidly determined with fair precision by modifications of the closed-can, gamma-only assay method, using commercially available or similar equipment. Coefficients range from <1% to 91%. Emanation varies considerably within each mine and area. Coefficients also vary with: (1) uranium mineralogy; (2) radium mineralogy; (3) lithology of host rocks; (4) grain size of uranium and radium minerals; (5) comminution of ore; (6) estimated porosity and permeability; (7) moisture content; (8) ore grade; (9) supposed mobility of deposits; age of deposits is unknown but limited by (10) age of host rocks which shows only doubtful correlation with emanation. Data obtained may be used to evaluate effects of investigated parameters on radon concentration in mines, and thus to select efficient control measures. Drill-core emanation data allow estimates of probable radon problems in undeveloped deposits.
Research Organization:
Bureau of Mines, Denver, CO (USA). Denver Mining Research Center
OSTI ID:
6538567
Report Number(s):
PB-279647; BM-RI-8264
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English