Deutsch: Uranium / Español: Uranio / Português: Urânio / Français: Uranium / Italiano: Uranio /
Uranium is described as a mildly radioactive element with two isotopes which are fissile (U-235 and U-233) and two which are fertile (U-238 and U-234). Uranium is the basic fuel of nuclear energy.
Description
Uranium is a naturally occurring radioactive element with atomic number 92 and symbol U. In the industrial context, uranium is primarily known for its application as a fuel in nuclear power plants, where it undergoes nuclear fission to generate heat energy. It is a dense metal that can exist in various forms, with uranium-235 being the most commonly utilized isotope for nuclear power generation due to its relatively high fissile properties. Uranium is typically extracted from uranium ore through mining and milling processes, after which it undergoes enrichment to increase the concentration of uranium-235. Despite its importance in energy production, uranium also poses environmental and health risks due to its radioactive properties, necessitating careful handling and disposal.
Application Areas
- Nuclear power generation
- Production of medical isotopes
- Nuclear research and development
- Military applications (e.g., nuclear weapons)
- Industrial radiography and non-destructive testing
Treatment and Risks
- Strict regulatory compliance to ensure safe handling and storage
- Implementation of radiation protection measures for workers and the surrounding environment
- Proper disposal of radioactive waste generated during uranium processing
- Monitoring of air and water quality to prevent contamination
Examples
- Use of uranium fuel pellets in nuclear reactors to generate steam for electricity production
- Production of radioisotopes like technetium-99m for medical imaging and cancer treatment
- Utilization of depleted uranium in armor-piercing projectiles and armor plating for military applications
Similar Concepts and Synonyms
- Nuclear fuel
- Radioactive material
- Fissile material
Weblinks
- environment-database.eu: 'Uranium' in the glossary of the environment-database.eu
Articles with 'Uranium' in the title
- Conventional mill (uranium): Conventional mill (uranium) is described as a facility engineered and built principally for processing of uraniferous ore materials mined from the earth and the recovery, by chemical treatment in the mill?s circuits, of uranium and/or . . .
Summary
In the industrial context, uranium plays a significant role primarily as a fuel in nuclear power generation, where it undergoes nuclear fission to produce heat energy. It also finds applications in medical isotope production, nuclear research, and military uses such as in nuclear weapons. However, the handling and processing of uranium entail strict safety measures due to its radioactive properties, including regulatory compliance, radiation protection, and proper waste management. Despite its utility, uranium poses environmental and health risks, necessitating careful handling and monitoring. Synonyms include nuclear fuel, radioactive material, and fissile material.
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