Radium-226 contents and Rn emanation coefficients of particle-size fractions of alkaline, acid and mixed U mill tailings

Journal Article · Sun Mar 01 04:00:00 EST 1987 · Health Phys.; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1097/00004032-198703000-00004· OSTI ID:6617875

Landa, E R

Alkaline circuit and mixed, acid and alkaline circuit U mill tailings sampled at an inactive mill site near Monticello, UT, and tailings from an active, acid-leach U mill were separated into particle-size fractions ranging from +10 mesh to -325 mesh by dry and wet separation techniques. The /sup 226/Ra contents and /sup 222/Rn emanation coefficients of these fractions were determined. Dry tailings show a high degree of aggregation that tends to mask the relation of properties, such as Ra content and Rn emanating power, to dispersed-particle size. Coarse-tailings fractions (+325 mesh) had emanation coefficients which were from 25 to 45% lower than those of their fine-fraction counterparts. Emanation coefficients measured for tailings derived from a salt roast/carbonate-leach process suggest that such roasting does not lead to reductions in Rn emanation in the tailings derived therefrom.

• Research Organization: Geological Survey, Reston, VA
• OSTI ID: 6617875
• Journal Information: Health Phys.; (United States), Journal Name: Health Phys.; (United States) Vol. 3; ISSN HLTPA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

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BETA DECAY RADIOISOTOPES
BETA-MINUS DECAY RADIOISOTOPES
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