Uranium in phosphate fertilizer production

The production of fertilizers from natural phosphate ore can lead to the redistribution of uranium and other radionuclides in products, by-products and residues and, hence, to environmental impacts and increased radiation exposures.

Uranium and other radionuclides are mainly found in the process residue phosphogypsum and to a lesser degree in the final fertilizer products. The input of radionuclides of natural origin into the food chain via phosphate fertilizers appears to be of lesser concern. Because the radionuclide activity concentrations in most of the process materials are only slightly above levels in soil, the need for specific measures to control radiological hazards to individuals and the environment is very limited. In most cases, normal occupational health and environmental protection measures designed for non-radiological hazards will be sufficient to protect against radiological hazards as well.