Most of the time, samples with low levels of uranium such as soil or water return
< MDA values on U-235 and detectable values of U-234 and U-238 when sent to the
laboratory for analysis. Since uranium enrichment is defined as the mass percent
of U-235 in total uranium, a straight out percentage calculation cannot be performed
from laboratory data. This calculator was developed for the purpose of calculating
enrichment from U-234 and U-238 data. Specific activity formulas were developed
from empirical data collected from US gaseous diffusion plants and other sources.
The lab data ratios are compared to the formula ratios. Since enrichment always
ends up on both sides of the equation, creative computer algorithms had to be developed
to calculate enrichment. Additional useful calculations are performed for you such
as mass and activity ratios, ppm, etc. This calculator is useful for proving that
uranium found in soil and water samples are all naturally occurring as well as other
situations. If enriched or depleted uranium were present, the enrichment would be
higher or lower than normally found in soil and water. To see and read more about
the formulas, read the white paper on this site available by clicking the "Documents/U
Enrichment" button.