U.N. scientists are trying to determine whether the heavy metal is linked to the leukemia deaths of several soldiers and illnesses in dozens of others. Thousands of tons exist. Because its high density gives it an unmatched ability to punch through armored vehicles, it is used to tip anti-tank ammunition. It also is self-igniting, creating secondary explosions. U.S. forces fired about 30 tons in air raids in Kosovo two years ago, and smaller quantities in Bosnia.
Unfired munitions pose little health risk because they emit virtually no radiation.
But depleted uranium ammunition penetrates armor, it creates dust particles that can be inhaled, ingested or enter the body through an open wound. Because it is a heavy metal, depleted uranium can be both a chemical poison and a radiation hazard. The chemical hazard is greater, according to the U.S. Army. The U.S. Army urges soldiers to wear protective masks and cover exposed skin when working around vehicles struck by depleted uranium munition, and advises troops not to pick up unexploded rounds. Worldline News front page Copyright 2001 Associated Press .