Arsenuranospathite

Arsenuranospathite is a rare uranium mineral that was first discovered in 1966 in the Black Forest region of Germany. It is named after its chemical composition, which includes arsenic and uranium, and the Greek word for "spar", which refers to its crystal structure.

Description

Arsenuranospathite is a hydrated arsenate mineral with the chemical formula: (UO2)5(AsO4)2(OH)4•5H2O. It forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of uranium-bearing ore deposits. The mineral is typically yellow to greenish-yellow in color and exhibits a vitreous to pearly luster. It has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, which is relatively soft, similar to gypsum.

Arsenuranospathite sample from the Black Forest, Germany

Occurrence and Discovery

Arsenuranospathite was first discovered in the Black Forest region of Germany in 1966. Since then, it has been found in a number of other locations around the world, including France, Kazakhstan, and the United States. It is often associated with other uranium minerals, such as uranospinite, zeunerite, and uranophane.

Health Risks

Due to its uranium content, arsenuranospathite is radioactive and can pose health risks if not handled properly. Prolonged exposure can lead to radiation sickness, and ingestion or inhalation of the mineral can cause serious health problems. Therefore, it is important to handle arsenuranospathite with care and to follow all safety guidelines when working with this mineral.

See Also

• List of minerals
• Uranium mining
• Radioactive decay