RE: POLY25 Mar 2023 11:43
RatshlitB
What are the potential routes of exposure from depleted uranium ammunitions?
The main potential hazard associated with depleted uranium ammunitions is the inhalation of the aerosols created when DU ammunitions hit an armoured target. The size, distribution, and chemical composition of the particles released on impact will be highly variable, but the fraction of the aerosols that can enter the lung can be as high as 96%. A typical composition of these aerosols is about 60% U3O8, 20% UO2, and about 20% other amorphous oxides (Schripsick et al., 1984). Both U3O8 and UO2 are insoluble compounds. The individuals most likely to receive the highest doses from DU ammunitions are, therefore, those near a target at the time of impact or those who examine a target (or enter a tank) in the aftermath of the impact.