Tuumkütuse

Tuumkütuse, also known as nuclear fuel, is a material that contains fissile isotopes and is used as the energy source in nuclear reactors. The most common fissile isotope used in nuclear power plants is uranium-235 (U-235). Other fissile materials, such as plutonium-239 (Pu-239) or thorium-232 (Th-232) as a fertile material, can also be used in certain reactor designs.

The process of generating energy from tuumkütuse involves nuclear fission. In a nuclear reactor, neutrons strike the nuclei of fissile atoms, causing them to split into smaller nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy in the form of heat and more neutrons. These released neutrons can then go on to strike other fissile atoms, creating a self-sustaining chain reaction.

Tuumkütuse is typically manufactured into fuel rods, which are assembled into fuel assemblies. These assemblies are then loaded into the reactor core. The heat generated by fission is used to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity. After a period of use, the tuumkütuse becomes depleted and is removed from the reactor. This spent nuclear fuel is highly radioactive and requires careful handling and storage. Research is ongoing into advanced fuel cycles and disposal methods for spent nuclear fuel.