Implications of U sequestration in U-Al-SO4-Si grain coatings for remediation and stewardship
EMSL Project ID
22192
Abstract
Sediment and groundwater adjacent to the DOE Oak Ridge Y-12 plant is highly contaminated with a variety of radionuclide, metal, and organic species. Previous remediation efforts included soil excavation followed by infilling with a dolomite/quartz gravel. Tremendous accumulation of uranium at the gravel/sediment interface has been discovered as stratified U-Al-SO4-Si rinds around the gravel surface. The mechanism and mineralogical form of uranium sequestration is not known. Further intensive imaging and microanalysis are required to answer basic questions regarding the characteristics of the rind and the behavior of the associated uranium, including TEM, EF-TEM, electron diffraction (EMSL), and synchrotron x-ray microscopy/ microprobe analysis (ALS/APS). Additionally, many advanced analytical and spectroscopic techniques are not possible without careful sample preparation using sectioning methods such as ultramicrotomy.
Project Details
Project type
Exploratory Research
Start Date
2007-02-08
End Date
2008-02-10
Status
Closed
Released Data Link
Team
Principal Investigator
Team Members