Airborne Levels of Uranium in the Surroundings of Various Industrial Facilities: Human Health Risks

Abstract

This study was aimed at determining the levels of natural uranium (U) in air samples collected in the surroundings of various industrial facilities: three cement plants, two municipal solid waste incinerators, and a hazardous waste landfill in Catalonia (NE Spain). Although U concentrations were found to be similar or slightly higher than those reported in the scientific literature, the current airborne U levels should not mean any health risks for the population living close to these facilities.