iron-rich limonite

へぇ〜そうなのかと驚くような発見です。
iron-richは文字通り、鉄分を多く含んだという形容詞です（cf. ~ bodied）。limoniteは酸化鉄の鉱石で、「褐鉄鉱」と訳されます。迅速なる応用（商品化）を期待します。（GP）

Mount Aso limonite helps block radiation from tainted soil: researchers

A team of researchers has succeeded in cutting radiation levels emitted from contaminated soil by sprinkling iron-rich limonite on it, paving the way for preventing external exposure without removing tainted soil.

The researchers at Tokyo University of Science and other entities announced that they have succeeded in shielding some 65 percent of gamma rays emitted from radioactive cesium in contaminated soil by putting a layer of limonite on it. If put into practice, the method will help prevent external exposure to gamma rays without the hassle of soil removal. Limonite is mainly collected in areas around Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture.

The iron mineral is generated through the microbial reaction of soil deposited in the caldera of Mount Aso. Some 70 percent of limonite's main component consists of iron. The researchers focused on the fact that gamma rays do not penetrate through thick iron plates or lead.

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20130219p2a00m0na008000c.html