Investigation of Chelating Agents for the Removal of Thorium from Human Teeth upon Nuclear Contamination.

Thorium-232 (Th) is a radioactive heavy metal that is of increasing interest as a source of nuclear energy. However, upon nuclear incidents, the ingestion or inhalation of Th in major quantities can contribute to chemical and radiological health problems, including accumulation in the bone tissue and an increased risk of developing pancreatic, lung, and hematopoietic cancers. The major mineral component of the bone is hydroxyapatite (HAP)─also the major mineral component of the teeth.

Uptake and Removal of Uranium by and from Human Teeth.

Uranium-238 (U), a long-lived radiometal, is widespread in the environment because of both naturally occurring processes and anthropogenic processes. The ingestion or inhalation of large amounts of U is a major threat to humans, and its toxicity is considered mostly chemical rather than radiological. Therefore, a way to remove uranium ingested by humans from uranium-contaminated water or from the air is critically needed.

Pistachio shells as remediating agents for uranium in contaminated industrial seawater.

Waterways have histories of being contaminated by heavy and/or radioactive metals produced by industrial processes. Natural radioisotopes of uranium (U, U and U), long-lived radiometals, are widespread in the environment as a result of both naturally occurring processes and anthropogenic processes. Uranium is considered a major threat to humans.