Atoomkracht

Atoomkracht is the Dutch term for atomic power, commonly referring to nuclear energy produced in reactors, but it can also describe other nuclear processes used in medicine and industry.

Historically, nuclear energy emerged from early 20th-century discoveries in radioactivity and fission. After World War II, several countries built reactors to generate electricity, conduct research, or propel ships.

A typical power reactor uses the fission of heavy atoms such as uranium-235 to release heat. The heat is used to make steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity. The process is carefully controlled and the reactor is built to contain radioactive materials.

Nuclear techniques are also used in medicine (radiotherapy and imaging), industry (nondestructive testing), and scientific research.

Advantages include high energy density and low greenhouse gas emissions during operation. Challenges include the generation of long-lived radioactive waste, the potential for accidents, and concerns about weapons proliferation. Regulation, safety culture, and public acceptance are important factors.

In the world, many countries rely on nuclear power, while others phase it out. In the Netherlands, there is one commercial nuclear power plant, Borssele, with ongoing discussions about its future and about expanding nuclear capacity as part of climate goals.