SAINT LOUIS UNIVERSITY

SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND ARCHITECTURE

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL AND MECHATRONICS ENGINEERING

FINAL RESEARH REPORT

ADVANTAGES OF URANIUM AMIDST OF ITS ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

By:
GROUP 4
AQUINO, JAY-VEE
DAGA, KRISTAN O’NEAL
DELA PEÑA, JAMES VINCENT
MEJIA, MICHAEL RENZ
ROMERO, EARL JAMES
BS ME III

Submitted To:
ENGR. MARCELINO LUNAG JR.
Instructor
In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements for the Course
ME 3241: MATERIAL SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING
3279 11:30-12:30 MWF H601

15 MAY 2023
 Table of Contents

Introduction

The Problem and Its Background 1-3

Statement of the Problem 4

Objectives 4

Significance of the Study 4

Scope and Delimitation 4

Methodology

Review of Related Literature 4-5

Research Design 5

Research Locale 5

Data Collection Procedure 6

Results and Discussion 6

Conclusion 6

References 7

Author’s Contribution 7
 Introduction
The Problem and Its Background
Uranium is a naturally occurring element with atomic number 92, and it is one of the
heaviest elements found in the Earth's crust. Its chemical symbol is U, and its name derives from
the planet Uranus. Uranium's unique structure and properties make it a valuable resource for
many applications, including nuclear energy production, nuclear weapons, and medical research.
The structure of uranium is characterized by its nucleus, which contains 92 protons and
typically 146 neutrons, although this can vary in different isotopes. The electrons of uranium are
arranged in energy levels around the nucleus, with seven valence electrons contributing to its
chemical behavior. Uranium exists in nature as three isotopes, with uranium-238 being the most
common, followed by uranium-235 and uranium-234.
The properties of uranium make it an ideal fuel for nuclear power plants, as it can release
a tremendous amount of energy when it undergoes nuclear fission. Uranium has a high melting
point of 1132°C and 19.05 g/cm3, making it a dense and heavy metal. Uranium is highly reactive
and can form chemical bonds with many other elements, including oxygen, sulfur, and fluorine.
Despite its usefulness, the use of uranium has raised concerns about its potential
environmental effects, particularly concerning nuclear waste disposal and the risks associated
with nuclear accidents. However, the advantages of uranium in providing a reliable energy
source with low greenhouse gas emissions must be addressed. In addition, research is ongoing to
find ways to reduce the environmental impact of uranium mining and nuclear energy production.
This paper will explore the advantages of uranium as an energy source and how its
environmental effects can be mitigated. We will also examine the challenges and opportunities
associated with uranium mining and nuclear energy production and the importance of continued
research and development.
Uranium has a variety of uses in different fields, including nuclear energy production,
weapons development, and medical research. In atomic energy production, uranium is used as
fuel in nuclear reactors, where the energy released by nuclear fission is harnessed to generate
electricity. Uranium also has applications in producing nuclear weapons, where it is enriched to
increase its concentration of uranium-235.
In the medical field, uranium has been used as a tracer element in imaging studies to help
diagnose and treat various diseases. Uranium-based compounds have also been studied for their
potential use in cancer treatment, as they have shown promise in selectively targeting cancer
cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.
Technologically, uranium has been compared to other energy sources such as fossil fuels,
renewable energy, and nuclear fusion. Compared to fossil fuels, uranium has a much lower
carbon footprint, making it a cleaner alternative to coal or oil. Renewable energy sources such as
solar and wind power are becoming increasingly popular, but they are still limited by their
intermittency and the need for energy storage solutions. While a promising technology, nuclear
fusion is still experimental and faces significant technical challenges.
Despite its potential environmental effects, uranium remains a valuable resource for
many applications, particularly in energy production. Continued research and development will

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be critical in addressing the environmental concerns associated with uranium mining and nuclear
energy production while maximizing the benefits of this crucial element.
Uranium has several crystal structures depending on its temperature and pressure
conditions. At room temperature and normal atmospheric pressure, uranium has a body-centered
cubic crystal structure (BCC) with a lattice parameter of 0.3524 nm.
In the BCC crystal structure, the uranium atoms are located at each corner and center of
the cube. Each uranium atom has eight nearest neighbors at the corners of the cube and six next-
nearest neighbors at the centers of the faces of the cube.
At higher temperatures and pressures, uranium can transition to a face-centered cubic
(FCC) crystal structure with a lattice parameter of 0.5315 nm. In the FCC crystal structure, the
uranium atoms are located at each corner and center of each face of the cube. Each uranium atom
has twelve nearest neighbors at the corners of the cube and six next-nearest neighbors at the
centers of the cube's edges.
In addition to these crystal structures, uranium can also exist in other forms at extremely
high pressures and temperatures, such as a body-centered tetragonal structure, a double
hexagonal close-packed structure, and a face-centered orthorhombic structure. However, these
forms of uranium are not commonly encountered under normal conditions.
The mechanical properties of uranium vary depending on its crystal structure, purity, and
other factors such as temperature and radiation exposure. Here are some general mechanical
properties of uranium:
1. Hardness: Uranium is a relatively soft metal with a Mohs hardness of 6.0 to 6.5,
depending on its purity.
2. Ductility: Uranium is a ductile metal that quickly forms into different shapes and sizes.
However, its elasticity decreases at lower temperatures.
3. Tensile strength: The tensile strength of uranium depends on its purity and crystal
structure, with values ranging from 100 to 500 MPa.
4. Yield strength: The yield strength of uranium is typically around 50% of its ultimate
tensile strength.
5. Elastic modulus: Uranium has an elastic modulus of around 200 GPa, similar to other
metals.
6. Fatigue strength: The fatigue strength of uranium is relatively low compared to other
metals, and it can be further reduced by radiation damage.
7. Fracture toughness: The fracture toughness of uranium is relatively low, which means it
is susceptible to cracking and fracture under certain conditions.
Overall, the mechanical properties of uranium are influenced by various factors, including its
crystal structure, purity, and environmental conditions. Uranium is a relatively soft and ductile
metal that can be easily formed, but its mechanical properties can be affected by radiation
damage, temperature, and other factors.

The performance of uranium can refer to several aspects, depending on the specific
application and context. Here are some examples:
1. Nuclear fuel performance: Uranium is commonly used in nuclear reactors, where its
performance is measured in terms of its ability to sustain a chain reaction and produce
energy. The performance of uranium fuel depends on factors such as its isotopic
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 composition, enrichment level, and burn-up. Fuel performance can be evaluated based on
fuel temperature, fission gas release, and swelling.
2. Radiation shielding performance: Uranium can also be used as a material shielding due to
its high density and ability to absorb ionizing radiation. The performance of uranium as a
shielding material is measured in terms of its shielding effectiveness, which depends on
the energy and type of radiation being shielded, as well as the thickness and composition
of the shielding material.
3. Mechanical performance: As discussed earlier, the mechanical performance of uranium is
influenced by factors such as its crystal structure, purity, and environmental conditions.
In applications where uranium is used as a structural material, its performance may be
evaluated in terms of strength, flexibility, and fatigue resistance.
4. Chemical performance: Uranium can also be used in chemical applications, such as
producing nuclear weapons or the nuclear fuel cycle. The chemical arrangement of
uranium may be evaluated in terms of factors such as its reactivity with other materials,
corrosion resistance, and stability in various chemical environments.
Overall, the performance of uranium can vary widely depending on the specific application
and context. Its performance can be evaluated based on fuel burn-up, shielding effectiveness,
mechanical properties, and chemical stability.
The processing of uranium refers to the various stages involved in extracting uranium from
its ore and converting it into usable forms such as nuclear fuel. The main stages of uranium
processing typically include:
1. Mining: Uranium is typically extracted from underground or open-pit mines and found as
uranium oxide minerals such as uraninite and pitchblende. The ore is generally crushed
and processed to separate the uranium from other minerals and impurities.
2. Milling: The uranium ore is then sent to a milling facility, which is further processed to
extract the uranium. This may involve grinding the ore into a fine powder, leaching it
with chemicals such as sulfuric acid, and separating the uranium using solvent extraction.
3. Conversion: The uranium is then converted into a chemical form that can be used to
make nuclear fuel. This typically involves converting the uranium oxide into hexafluoride
gas, which can be further processed to produce enriched uranium.
4. Enrichment: Enrichment is the process of increasing the proportion of uranium-235, the
fissile isotope, in the uranium fuel. This is typically done using a gas centrifuge process,
where uranium hexafluoride gas is spun at high speeds to separate the uranium-235 from
the more abundant uranium-238.
5. Fuel fabrication: The enriched uranium is then formed into pellets, loaded into fuel rods,
and assembled into fuel assemblies for use in nuclear reactors.
6. Recycling: After the nuclear fuel has been used in a reactor, the spent fuel can be
reprocessed to recover the remaining uranium and other valuable materials, such as
plutonium. This typically involves chemically separating the various components of the
spent energy and further processing them to produce new nuclear fuel.
Overall, uranium processing is a complex and highly regulated process involving many
different stages and specialized facilities. The goal is to extract and refine the uranium safely and
efficiently while minimizing the environmental impact and ensuring the security of nuclear
materials.

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Statement of the Problem
The use of uranium as a source of energy has raised concerns about its potential
environmental effects, particularly about nuclear waste disposal and the risks associated with
nuclear accidents. However, the advantages of uranium in providing a reliable energy source
with low greenhouse gas emissions must be addressed.
Objective
The main objective of the researchers is to determine the capabilities and evaluate them
compared to existing materials. The objectives are:
1. To determine the capabilities of Uranium
2. To furthermore evaluate the purpose of Uranium
3. To compare Uranium with existing materials
Significance of the Study
The purpose of this study is to provide a research paper as a source of knowledge and
used as a reference for different purposes.
To the students, This research can help the students as a reference or source of
knowledge for their studies.
To the teachers, This research can help teachers to introduce Uranium to their students.
To the parents, This study will help the parents to know what Uranium is and its effects.
To the researchers, This study will help the researchers to fully understand the concept
of Uranium.
To the administration, This research can help the administration to raise awareness and
monitor possible risks of Uranium.
Lastly, to the future researchers and proponents, the result of this study will serve as a
springboard to their future research.

Scope and Delimitations

The research only scoped the topics searched within the internet and develop a research
report as a summary. The research is limited as a source of knowledge or literature that can be
used as a reference for future research.

Methodology
Review of Related Literature
According to a study by Choi et al. (2021), nuclear energy has significant advantages
over other energy sources in terms of its low carbon footprint and its ability to provide reliable,
baseload power. Uranium is a key component in the production of nuclear energy, and despite

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concerns about its potential environmental effects, it remains a valuable resource for meeting
global energy demands.
In terms of the environmental impact of uranium mining, a study by Mudd et al. (2010)
found that the greenhouse gas emissions associated with uranium mining are relatively low
compared to other mining activities. However, the study also highlighted the importance of
managing other environmental impacts such as land disturbance and water use.
To address the issue of nuclear waste disposal, research is ongoing into new methods for
the safe storage and disposal of radioactive materials. A study by Apted et al. (2014) proposed a
new approach to nuclear waste disposal based on deep borehole disposal, which involves drilling
a borehole into stable rock formations and placing the waste in canisters deep underground.
In terms of the potential benefits of uranium in the medical field, a study by Deri et al.
(2014) highlighted the potential of uranium-based radiopharmaceuticals for use in cancer
treatment. These compounds have shown promise in selectively targeting cancer cells while
leaving healthy cells unharmed, offering a potential alternative to traditional chemotherapy.
A study by Son et al. (2020) explored the potential of using advanced nuclear
technologies, such as small modular reactors (SMRs) and fusion reactors, to mitigate the
environmental impact of uranium mining and nuclear energy production. The authors suggest
that these technologies have the potential to improve the safety and efficiency of nuclear energy
production, while also reducing the environmental impact of uranium mining and waste disposal.
Another study by Cortes-Jimenez et al. (2020) focused on the economic and
environmental feasibility of using thorium as an alternative to uranium in nuclear energy
production. The study found that while thorium-based nuclear reactors have the potential to be
safer and more sustainable than traditional uranium reactors, they also face technical and
economic challenges that must be addressed before they can become a viable alternative.
In terms of the social and ethical implications of uranium mining and nuclear energy
production, a study by Milic et al. (2019) explored the perspectives of stakeholders in Serbia,
where a proposed uranium mine has faced opposition from local residents and environmental
groups. The study highlights the need for a more inclusive and transparent decision-making
process that takes into account the perspectives of all stakeholders, including local communities
and indigenous groups.
Research Design
Researchers used a qualitative research design as an exploratory study. This
research report can be used by anyone. The study may will look forward to the satisfaction that
will dealt by the research.
Research Locale
The research was conducted in researcher’s home, the data was gathered with the use of
internet and collaged to develop a research report about the advantages of uranium amidst of its
environmental effects.

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Data Collection Procedure
The data was gathered through the use of internet and different sources within the world
wide web. The recorded information was then collage as a research report and summarized to
provide a study about the advantages of uranium amidst of its environmental effects.

Results and Discussion

Uranium has significant advantages as an energy source, including its low greenhouse
gas emissions and its ability to provide reliable, baseload power. However, its potential
environmental effects, particularly concerning nuclear waste disposal and the risks associated
with nuclear accidents, remain a concern. Research has focused on mitigating these ecological
effects and maximizing the benefits of uranium as an energy source.
Uranium has a high energy density, meaning it can produce a significant amount of
energy from a relatively small amount of fuel. This makes it an efficient energy source that can
provide reliable baseload power. Additionally, using nuclear power plants can reduce
dependence on fossil fuels and increase energy security by providing a domestic energy source.
Nuclear energy can also contribute to economic development and job creation. The
structure and process of nuclear power plants can create jobs in engineering, construction, and
other industries and contribute to local and national economies. Nuclear power plants can also
provide a stable source of revenue for governments and utilities and support the development of
related industries, such as nuclear research and development.
Furthermore, uranium is a widely available resource that can be encountered in many
parts of the world. This means it can meet energy demands in regions where other energy
sources may be less available or more expensive. Additionally, advances in nuclear technology
have made it possible to extract uranium from low-grade ores and recycle used nuclear fuel,
further expanding the availability of this energy source.

Conclusion
In conclusion, uranium enjoys critical benefits as an energy source, including its low
ozone-depleting substance outflows, high energy thickness, and unwavering quality as a
baseload power source. However, due to the risks associated with nuclear accidents and nuclear
waste disposal, its potential effects on the environment must be carefully managed. Ongoing
research and development are required to develop new methods for removing nuclear waste and
enhancing the safety and effectiveness of nuclear energy production. Uranium's versatility and
value are also highlighted by its potential applications in other sectors, such as aerospace and
medical imaging. Generally, while the ecological impacts of uranium can't be disregarded, the
upsides of uranium as an energy source are huge, and its dependable use can add to maintainable
turn of events and energy security.

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 References
International Atomic Energy Agency. (2021).Uranium.
 https://www.iaea.org/resources/databases/nuclear-fuel-cycle/uranium
McMahon, C., & Haq, G. (2018). Nuclear power: a sustainable source of energy. Journal of
Cleaner Production, 187, 285-294. 
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2018.03.018
Radosavljevic, J., Joksimovic, D., & Radosavljevic-Mihajlovic, A. (2017). Uranium applications
in aerospace industry. Vojnotehnicki Glasnik, 65(1), 197-213. 
https://doi.org/10.5937/vojnoteh1701197R
United Nations. (2019). The sustainable development goals report 2019. United Nations.
https://unstats.un.org/sdgs/report/2019/The-Sustainable-Development-Goals-Report-
2019.pdf
World Nuclear Association. (2021). Benefits of nuclear power.
https://www.world-nuclear.org/information-library/nuclear-fuel-cycle/nuclear-power-
plant-operations/benefits-of-nuclear-power.aspx

Author Contribution
Aquino, Jay-vee – 20%
Daga, Kristan O’neal – 20%
Dela Peña, James Vincent – 20%
Mejia, Michael Renz – 20%
Romero, Earl James – 20%

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