Abstract
This paper describes the uranium content analysed in the groundwaters around a restored uranium mine and their impact on the discharge area. A conceptual model for uranium mobilisation in the groundwaters has been proposed: the percolation of oxidised waters, through the fractured granite, produces the oxidation of pyrite and arsenopyrite and the precipitation of iron oxyhydroxides. The dissolution of primary pitchblende takes place and, subsequently, a release of U(VI) species to the solution is produced. These U(VI) species are fixed by silicate species, and they are also retained by iron hydroxides. Secondary uranium species are eventually formed, as reducing conditions are re-established due to water-rock interactions.
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Gómez, P., Garralón, A., Buil, B., Sanchez, L. (2002). Geochemical processes related to uranium mobilisation on groundwaters in a restored uranium mine. In: Merkel, B.J., Planer-Friedrich, B., Wolkersdorfer, C. (eds) Uranium in the Aquatic Environment. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-55668-5_38
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-55668-5_38
Publisher Name: Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg
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