Uranyl acetate solutions show evidence of being sensitive to light, especially UV, and will precipitate if exposed.

[citation needed] Uranyl acetate is also used in a standard test—American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Designation T 299—for alkali-silica reactivity in aggregates (crushed stone or gravel) being considered for use in cement concrete.

Normal commercial stocks from depleted uranium have typical specific activity 0.37–0.51 microcuries per gram (14–19 kBq/g), too weak to harm from outside the body.

However, uranyl acetate is very toxic if ingested, inhaled as dust, or absorbed through cut or abraded skin.

[citation needed] Microbiologists have developed a number of alternative stains:[8] neodymium acetate,[9][10] platinum blue,[11] hafnium chloride,[12] and oolong tea extracts.