Title: Biodegradation in oils as a geological natural analogue

Authors: Guillermo Rojas, Julio Salvarredi

Addresses: Comision Nacional de Energia Atomica, Argentina. ' Comision Nacional de Energia Atomica, Argentina

Abstract: A synthesis of scientific knowledge about petroleum biodegradation linked to uranium mineralisation is firstly done. Then the genesis of Huemul Uranium ore deposit (Malargüe Town, Mendoza Province) is discussed, where Uranium ore is linked only with one type of asphaltite (there are three other types) from an oil field close by. This asphaltite type would be an efficient natural geological barrier for Uranium migration and it could be linked to a particular kind of biodegradation. The authors think that the International Wonuc Conference would be a good opportunity to discuss a way for future investigations.

Keywords: petroleum biodegradation; uranium mineralisation; natural analogue; asphalt; oils.

DOI: 10.1504/IJNEST.2004.005267

International Journal of Nuclear Energy Science and Technology, 2004 Vol.1 No.1, pp.102 - 107

Published online: 17 Sep 2004 *

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