The use of natural uranium decay series studies in support of understanding redox conditions at potential radioactive waste disposal sites

Tullborg, E.L., Smellie, J.A.T. and MacKenzie, A.B. (2004) The use of natural uranium decay series studies in support of understanding redox conditions at potential radioactive waste disposal sites. In: Oversby, V.M. and Werme, L.O. (eds.) Scientific Basis for Nuclear Waste Management XXVII: Symposium Held 15-19 June 2003, Kalmar, Sweden. Series: Materials Research Society symposium proceedings (807). Materials Research Society: Warrendale, PA, USA, pp. 571-576. ISBN 9781558997523

Abstract

Uranium is a redox-sensitive element which occurs naturally in the bedrock and groundwaters in Fennoscandia, and can be used, in conjunction with its decay series descendants, to indicate groundwater redox conditions. Not only can contemporary conditions be characterised, but evidence of past changes (e.g. during the last glaciation some 10 ka ago) can be preserved in minerals which coat the fracture walls along groundwater pathways. Uranium decay series data for groundwaters and solid fracture phases from the site of the Äspö Hard Rock Laboratory and its near vicinity are presented and discussed in the context of redox conditions.

• Item Type: Book Sections
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: MacKenzie, Professor Angus
• Authors: Tullborg, E.L., Smellie, J.A.T., and MacKenzie, A.B.
• Subjects: G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GE Environmental Sciences
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > Scottish Universities Environmental Research Centre
• Publisher: Materials Research Society
• ISBN: 9781558997523