I’m wondering where Depleted Uranium (DU) used in Iraq for hardening shell casings originates. Is it the U-238 isotope discarded as tailings during the enrichment process to increase the U-235 content?
Or does it have a component from the spent fuel from power stations?
Also, how does the DU from exploded shells contaminate human bodies? Is it aplpha emitting particles ingested then retained in the cells, or is it gamma radiation from the contamination on the land?
When shells are described as vaporising on impact does this mean the DU metal turns into ’vapour’ or does it mean it is exploded into fine particles resembling dust?
I’m wondering where Depleted Uranium (DU) used in Iraq for hardening shell casings originates. Is it the U-238 isotope discarded as tailings during the enrichment process to increase the U-235 content?
Or does it have a component from the spent fuel from power stations?
Also, how does the DU from exploded shells contaminate human bodies? Is it aplpha emitting particles ingested then retained in the cells, or is it gamma radiation from the contamination on the land?
When shells are described as vaporising on impact does this mean the DU metal turns into ’vapour’ or does it mean it is exploded into fine particles resembling dust?
Ted Benson
Australia
montaukemail@hotmail.com