Feature Article
Sep 5, 2024
Returning to Mother Earth
Abstract
Few nightmares in modern society conjure up such apocalyptic visions as radioactivity let loose in the environment. This fear is commonplace despite the fact that Mother Earth is naturally very radioactive, and living organisms have evolved and thrived in the presence of natural radioactivity, primarily from uranium and its decay products, over eons of time. Natural background concentrations of uranium in soil seldom exceed 11.7 mg/kg, a level that poses no health risk. However, when radioactive materials are concentrated to levels that pose risks to human health, concerns about exposure to them are justified and can pose challenges to geoprofessionals.
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© 2024 American Society of Civil Engineers.
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Published in print: Aug 1, 2024
Published online: Sep 5, 2024
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Alan Kuhn, Ph.D., P.E., F.ASCE
Principal, Alan Kuhn Associates LLC, Broomfield, Colo
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ASCE Library Cards let you download journal articles, proceedings papers, and available book chapters across the entire ASCE Library platform. ASCE Library Cards remain active for 24 months or until all downloads are used. Note: This content will be debited as one download at time of checkout.
Terms of Use: ASCE Library Cards are for individual, personal use only. Reselling, republishing, or forwarding the materials to libraries or reading rooms is prohibited.
Terms of Use: ASCE Library Cards are for individual, personal use only. Reselling, republishing, or forwarding the materials to libraries or reading rooms is prohibited.