Natural and Anthropogenic Factors: Shapers of Soluble Uranium Levels
摘要
The complex interaction of natural and anthropogenic controlling factors controls the solubility of uranium within the environment. This chapter reviews the controlling factors related to uranium solubility and, more importantly, geological and environmental factors that affect uranium mobility and bioavailability. Among the natural factors controlling uranium solubility in different ecosystems, pH, redox conditions, mineral composition, and groundwater flow are crucial. On the other hand, mining activities, nuclear power generation, and agricultural runoff serve as strong human activities upon which uranium levels are influenced through changes in their chemical compositions with an increase in the risk of contamination. Recent studies on the factors affecting uranium solubility range from natural conditions to human-induced influences, as discussed in this chapter. It focuses on case studies of areas that have been affected by uranium mining and industrial operations. This chapter also underscores the measures for uranium contamination abatement in the environment by considering methods such as remediation techniques and policy approaches. This chapter also sheds light on how to manage the environmental impact of uranium by examining the interaction between natural processes and human interventions.