Uranium Biomineralization with Phosphate—Biogeochemical Process and Its Application
Dan Zhang, Xue Chen, Steven L. Larson, John H. Ballard, Heather M. Knotek-Smith, Dexin Ding, Nan Hu, Fengxiang X. Han
Abstract
Anthropogenic activities involving uranium mining, nuclear fuel processing, nuclear weapon production, or nuclear power plant accidents have polluted soil and groundwater. As a byproduct of the uranium enrichment process for nuclear energy production, depleted uranium metal is available for use in a number of non-energy applications. Many of these uses cause a distribution of uranium metal, soluble uranium species, and oxides in the environment. A number of restoration techniques have been developed. One remedial approach is in situ biomineralization of U to form highly stable and insoluble U mineral products in soils and sediments. This review covers the current research status of uranium biomineralization using phosphate. The biogeochemical processes, biomineralization mechanisms, and biogeochemical conditions associated with the formation of uranium phosphate minerals were reviewed. This overview may be used to facilitate the further development and optimization of in situ bioremediation strategies for uranium in environmental systems.