Speciation of ~(226)Ra, uranium and metals in uranium mill tailings

摘要

Mineralogical speciation of ~(226)Ra, uranium and metals in uranium mill tailings is of prime importance in order to choose best long-term tailing pound remediation options. Methods of sequential and selective leachings are simple methods to quantify ~(226)Ra, uranium and metals fractions that are bound to mineralogical phases. More, results allow a better understanding of radium behaviour in the uranium mill tailings studied. These methods may also allow the prediction of the environmental impact of the tailings. For example, it may predict consequences of an increase in permeability, an acidification or a reduction of uranium mill tailings.