Chemical elements are the foundations of all matter in the universe, and the diversity and complexity of these elements are truly fascinating. From the inert gasses that fill our atmosphere to the reactive metals that power our technology, each element has unique characteristics and properties that make it essential to our understanding of the natural world. Also, while you can find some of them in minute quantities in the crust, others are so abundant that they form the basis of entire industries.
One of the most abundant elements you can find is Uranium. Despite experts warning about its dangers, it can be helpful if companies use it right. If you’re ready to use this element safely, this article will define Uranium and its practical purposes.
What Is Uranium?
Uranium is a precious element because it can produce thermal and nuclear power. It has a silvery-white metallic appearance and is one of the heaviest elements, abundantly present in the earth’s crust. Extracting this element is complicated, and industrial experts use it to power large machines globally.
6 Helpful Uses of Uranium
Despite the significant health and environmental risks, Uranium can benefit many industries when people use this element properly. After defining Uranium, this section will enumerate some of its essential utilities.
1. Medicine
The right medicine is crucial for preventing, diagnosing, and treating diseases. One element that has significantly helped with this is Uranium.
This substance has several medical uses, like treating different cancers, acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), and specific anemia types. It can also work as an antibiotic to eliminate bacteria. In 1940, an American chemist Dr. George Whipple used this chemical element to produce a novel medicine, which earned him a Nobel prize for his contributions to medical research.
2. Energy Generation
Generating adequate energy is essential for modern society because it helps to power homes, businesses, and industries. And Uranium can allow facilities to sustain various properties efficiently.
Industrial experts commonly use this substance in thermal and nuclear power plants worldwide as a crucial resource. After converting it into Uranium dioxide, it generates thermal power through steam to power turbines, generating the electricity needed for residential and commercial purposes.
3. Agricultural Purposes
Professionals use Uranium for agriculture, like soil sterilization, which prevents insects and pests from harming crops. This process eliminates bacteria and chemicals that could hinder crop growth, making it crucial for large-scale pesticide production. However, you should carefully execute the strategy because of the potential harmful effects.
4. Building Materials
Besides using Uranium in energy production and medical fields, you can also find this chemical element in other construction applications. Also, you can locate it as a constituent of concrete. In 1887, Swedish chemist Alfred Nobel invented “Brick Konkrete,” a new construction material with a high density that can support heavy loads by incorporating Uranium.
5. Nuclear Weapon Development
Developing nuclear weapons can help deter potential threats, give a strategic advantage, and advance scientific and technological advancements. One way to achieve that is by adding Uranium to the production process.
It’s no secret that one of the most common uses for this substance is to create nuclear weapons. Due to its ability to quickly generate immense amounts of energy, experts use Uranium in almost all atomic weapons produced globally, making it a crucial element in military warheads.
6. Lighting and Batteries
Besides the previously mentioned purposes, industrial experts employ Uranium to prevent light bulbs from overheating, create dyes, and produce different types of steel. Also, it plays a vital role in battery production because it can conduct electricity.
Powering the Future with Uranium
When industries use Uranium correctly, it can help with medical, agricultural, construction, and energy generation purposes. You can harness this substance safely by consulting a reputable expert.
If your company needs a reliable Uranium expert to learn more about the substance’s uses, ask William Sheriff! With over four decades of experience in the minerals and securities industry, he has been responsible for significant capital raises and corporate development. Submit your question now!
