Uranium in german tap and groundwater – occurrence and origins

Abstract

This study presents data of uranium (U) concentrations in groundwater (N = 155) and tap water (N = 4092) to which 76% of the entire German population has access. The mean U concentration was 0.68 μg/l, the median 0.50 μg/l. 3.7% of all samples had U concentrations below the detection limits, which accounts for water to which 11.7% of the entire population has access. 14.3% of samples were above 2 μg/l U, 3.3% above 10 μg/l U, representing an exposed population of 10.5 and 1.31% respectively. The regional distribution of U concentrations largely agrees with the geological setting reported for mineral waters, however, in addition clear evidence for anthropogenic influence through agricultural activities were found in certain areas.