Tsivoglou and O'Connell reported in 1962 that the relatively recent growth of uranium mining and milling to its present position as a major industry in the United States has accentuated problems associated with disposal of its waste materials. In recognition of the importance of safe disposal of the wastes from this industry, the United States Public Health Service and the Atomic Energy Commission have studied this matter extensively.
Since 1957 the Public Health Service has examined in detail the various uranium extraction processes in use and the effectiveness of waste control measures in minimizing the discharge of harmful materials. In addition, the effects of uranium mill waste discharges on the aquatic environment, the fate of these wastes in the stream. and the resulting radiological hazards to downstream water users have also received attention. As a result of these investigations as well as studies carried out by others, a considerable body of information concerning uranium milling wastes has been developed.
It is the purpose of this industrial waste guide to gather together this material and present a definitive analysis and characterization of the wastes which can be expected from uranium mills. The guide is intended primarily for the use of public health and water pollution control agencies, mill operators, and others in their efforts:
1) to evaluate the potential hazards associated with mill wastes,
2) to determine the effectiveness of existing mill ·waste control practices,
3) to estimate the effect of future mills on their local stream environment and locate mill sites so as to minimize such adverse effects. and
4) to find more effective methods of waste control and treatment.
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