The Environmental Impact of Uranium Mine Wastes

Abstract

Uranium mining activities form very front end of the nuclear fuel cycle. Mining and milling activities contribute the largest volume of radioactive waste. While the specific radioactivity of the bulk residues from mining and milling of uranium ore is generally very low, the volumes are extremely large. The focus of this paper is on the radioactive waste management and environmental impacts of uranium mines. Radioactive waste management methods and some of remediation techniques are described. Solid waste and wastewater treatment methods are presented. Long-term stability by solidification or immobilization techniques are evaluated in concept of remediation. Radiological impacts of uranium mine waste and radiation protection methods are evaluated according to low-dose rate exposure from uranium wastes.