Some fungi to clean depleted uranium

2008/06/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Biokimika

The UK University of Dundes has discovered fungi that feed on depleted uranium and grow smoothly. Moreover, they convert uranium into a stable phosphate compound and extract it from the food chain, since this compound is not a food. Depleted uranium is used for war ammunition and shielding, given its high density and effectiveness. Small particles of depleted uranium from the ammunition that contaminate the lands and waters of the war zones are scattered throughout the fighting. Despite not being as radioactive as natural uranium, depleted uranium is as dangerous as lead or mercury.