Depleted Uranium Oxide contamination on surface before laser cleaning
Yi-Chun Lin
Yi-Chun LinPh.D.Taiwan
Laser Materials Processing
Published
Dec 16, 2025

Depleted Uranium Oxide Contamination

Uranium oxide forms on surfaces after exposure to nuclear materials in manufacturing and military settings. Unlike rust or dust, it exhibits dense layering and radioactivity so distinguishes itself clearly. On steel, bond holds tightly, while on concrete, penetration deepens into structure, and challenges arise from hardness during removal. Laser cleaning succeeds because ablation vaporizes contamination precisely without residue spread.

Safety Information

Critical safety data for laser removal operations

Fire/Explosion Risk
low
Toxic Gas Risk
low
Visibility Hazard
moderate

Required Personal Protective Equipment

Respiratory Protection
PAPR
Eye Protection
goggles
Skin Protection
full_suit

Hazardous Fumes Generated

CompoundConcentrationExposure LimitHazard ClassStatus
Uranium Oxide (as U)0.5 mg/m³0.2 mg/m³toxic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Uranium Dioxide (UO₂)0.3 mg/m³0.2 mg/m³toxic⚠️ Exceeds Limit
Uranium Trioxide (UO₃)0.1 mg/m³0.05 mg/m³toxic⚠️ Exceeds Limit

Ventilation Requirements

Air Changes Per Hour
12
Exhaust Velocity
0.5 m/s
Filtration Type
HEPA

Particulate Generation

Respirable Fraction
80%
Size Range
0.1 - 10 μm

Substrate Compatibility Warnings

  • Laser parameters must be carefully controlled to minimize aerosolization
  • Surface may produce refractory particles that persist in work area
  • Contaminated runoff and debris require radioactive waste protocols