Laboratory simulation of uranium metal corrosion in different soil moisture regimes

Abstract

A novel laboratory simulation system has been developed for the study of the corrosion of uranium metal in soils. Corrosion and transportation of depleted uranium (DU) as the metal undergoes weathering as a buried material within the soil environment. The corrosion of uranium metal in soil was not well understood due to the gas-liquid-solid phase of the soil. This study presents a novel method to investigate the change of uranium species during the process of process of oxidation of metallic uranium in these environments. Compared with other techniques used for the study of environmental corrosion of metals in soils, this method has the advantage of low secondary uranium pollution, no energy consumption, and ease of operation. The simulation system has been used for the following studies:• Simultaneously simulate the corrosion of uranium metal in different soil moisture regimes,• Study the influence of biogeochemical factors on the corrosion of uranium metal,• Investigate the change of uranium species during oxidation. DISCLAIMER:The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents.DESTROY THIS REPORT WHEN NO LONGER NEEDED. DO NOT RETURN IT TO THE ORIGINATOR.

Functionalization of clay surface for the removal of uranium from water

“…Then the activated clay minerals with phosphoric acid were used to adsorb uranium in the aqueous solution. This method made it easier to separate the uranium from aqueous solution after adsorption [11] . In addition, phosphoric acid is a low-cost common raw material.…”