Nanoscience and Microsystems ETDs

Publication Date

Summer 7-12-2024

Abstract

Thousands of abandoned uranium mines (AUM) in Native American tribal lands have not been fully remediated, leaving uranium mine wastes exposed and accessible for potential erosion and transport by wind. Analyzing the metal and organic content of the fine-grained fractions in soils could uncover the impact of mine legacy on the soil health in communities that live in proximity to AUM. This study investigates the physical and chemical properties of the fine-grained fraction (μm) of soils to quantify the effect of heavy metal-bearing particulates on the soil health in the village of Paguate and within the Jackpile-Paguate AUM located on the lands of the Pueblo of Laguna, New Mexico. Inductively coupled plasma (ICP) of the elements present in acid-digested sediments revealed that the fine fractions are enriched in U, V, As, and Pb, as well as common rock-forming elements like Al, Ca, Mg, and K. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) indicates that 3-5% organic matter is present in all samples. Nitrogen analysis of organic matter shows there are the communities most impacted by mining.

Keywords

soil, uranium. arsenic, environmental, mining, indigenous

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Nanoscience and Microsystems

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Nanoscience and Microsystems

First Committee Member (Chair)

Eliane El Hayek

Second Committee Member

Jose Cerrato

Third Committee Member

Adrian Brearley

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Available for download on Thursday, July 30, 2026

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