Kjarnorkuefna

Kjarnorkuefna is an Icelandic term that translates to "nuclear fuel" in English. It refers to the material used in nuclear reactors to sustain a nuclear chain reaction. The most common type of nuclear fuel is uranium, specifically enriched uranium. This enrichment process increases the concentration of the fissile isotope uranium-235. Other nuclear fuels include plutonium, which is a byproduct of uranium fission, and thorium, which can be used in certain types of reactors.

The process of nuclear fission, which occurs when a neutron strikes a fissile atom like uranium-235, releases a significant amount of energy. This energy heats a surrounding fluid, typically water, which then drives turbines to generate electricity. Nuclear fuel is typically manufactured into fuel rods, which are bundled together to form fuel assemblies. These assemblies are then loaded into the core of a nuclear reactor.

The use of nuclear fuel is central to nuclear power generation, a technology that provides a low-carbon source of electricity. However, the handling, storage, and disposal of spent nuclear fuel, which becomes radioactive and hazardous, present significant challenges. International regulations and safety protocols govern the entire lifecycle of nuclear fuel to ensure safety and prevent proliferation of nuclear materials.