Abstract
Extensive uranium mining occurred from the mid- to late-1900s on Navajo tribal lands in Northern Arizona, an area rich in natural uranium. In this study, water samples from unregulated sources on the Navajo Reservation were analyzed to determine elemental uranium concentration, 234U/238U activity ratios, and existing inorganic anions. These data provide a more complete understanding of uranium source and the formation of potential uranium complexes. Results of the current studies suggest that some wells on the Navajo Nation have uranium concentrations near or above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency guideline of 30 μg/l. The 234U/238U activity ratios were similar for water wells located near mining sites with ratios of 1–1.5, and for those from the control, activity ratios were observed at 2.5–4.5. Two wells were observed to have high uranium and bicarbonate content suggesting the presence of uranyl carbonate species that may increase the solubility of uranium.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
