Nuclear Fusion and Fossil Fuels Masterclass

The Current Nuclear Scene

· Efficiency – Nuclear power plant reactors typically have a thermal efficiency of 33-37%. So one-third of thermal energy is converted into electricity. Other efficiencies to consider are mining techniques, fuel processing, enrichment, and waste management. Breeder reactors are ensuring some nuclear waste can be reused.

· Environmental Impact – The key stages where environmental impact needs to be considered is mining and waste management. The mining process can cause major disruption to the area containing the resource and the local community. There are two different methods of mining: open-pit and underground. This depends on how close to the surface the uranium source is located. Extracted uranium is in the form of uranium hexafluoride (UF6) or uranium oxide (UO2). It undergoes enrichment, often by gas centrifuges to obtain U-235. After a mine has run its life cycle, a site is restored to its former self by filling the mine and implementing measures to control erosion.

Photo by Rainer Krienke on Unsplash

· Affordability – Constructing a nuclear power plant is costly due to plant construction, safety systems, and regulation compliance. Once operational, the fuel cost is low, and the reactors have a long life. Changes in regulation and safety requirements can increase affordability. Decommissioning nuclear power plants is also costly, so why shut them down at all?