A Review on Analysis of Natural Uranium Isotopes and Their Application

Due to enhanced precision in uranium isotope measurements with MC-ICP-MS, there has been a surge in studies concerning the naturally occurring uranium isotope ratio ( 238 U/ 235 U) and its associated fractionation processes.Several researchers have highlighted that the 238 U/ 235 U ratio, previously assumed to be constant, can vary by several per mil depending on different natural fractionation processes.This review paper outlines the uranium isotope values (δ 238 U) for major terrestrial reservoirs and their variations.It discusses the range of δ238U values and uranium isotope fractionation seen in uranium ore deposits, based on deposit type and oreforming conditions.In conclusion, this paper emphasizes the importance of studies on uranium ore deposits.Such deposits serve as natural simulation models vital for designing high-level radioactive waste repository sites.