EnergySolutions is asking for a fast-track approval to accept a large amount of depleted uranium (DU) munitions, which is Uranium 238 metal that is pulled from mined uranium during processing to increase the concentration of fissionable U235. The separation process results in U238 concentrated with much less radioactive uranium and it is about 40 percent of the radioactivity of mined and natural uranium in the ground. It is used in anti-armor munitions by tanks, Navy anti-missile guns and ground attack aircraft like the A-10. Due to concerns about its effects on unintended targets, it is being phased out of service.
Commentary: EnergySolutions is confused about what constitutes ‘depleted uranium’
