Alert

Due to a lapse in appropriations, the NRC has ceased normal operations. However, excepted and exempted activities necessary to maintain critical health and safety functions—as well as essential progress on designated critical activities, including those specified in Executive Order 14300—will continue, consistent with the OMB-Approved NRC Lapse Plan.

Depleted uranium

Uranium with a percentage of uranium-235 lower than the 0.7 percent (by mass) contained in natural uranium. Depleted uranium is the byproduct of the uranium enrichment process. Depleted uranium can be blended with highly enriched uranium, such as that from weapons, to make reactor fuel.

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Wednesday, February 15, 2023