Module 101 - Properties of Uranium

DOE-HDBK-1113-98

Module 101 Properties of Uranium

Lesson Plan

Instructor's Notes

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MODULE 101 - Properties of Uranium

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Objective

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EO1 Describe the physical, radioactive, toxicological, and

chemical properties and biological effects of uranium.

Physical Properties

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Uranium can be encountered as a solid, liquid, or gas,

depending on its chemical form and surrounding

conditions. Each of these physical forms has particular

hazards. Sometimes, changing the form of uranium can

lead to radioactive decay products accumulating or

becoming concentrated in a particular location, such as on

the surface of a liquid. The result can be an apparent

increase in the radioactivity.

Provide a facility specific

Solid

example of uranium in a

solid form.

The solid forms of uranium are generally the most

stable configurations. The shiny, silvery metal form

is rarely seen except in a workshop when it is being

machined. After machining, the surface oxidizes,

typically within hours, to a hard, black surface.

After some time, depending on temperature,

humidity, and alloy, the surface may change color

and begin to flake. Orange or yellow colored

surfaces are usually more flaky and soluble. In these

forms, contamination can be more easily spread,

inhaled, and absorbed into the body.