gascentrifugering

Gascentrifugering, also known as gas centrifugation, is a technological process used to separate isotopes of a particular element, most notably uranium. This method relies on the principle of centrifugal force to achieve isotope separation by spinning gas at high speeds within a rotating cylinder or rotor.

The process is primarily employed in the nuclear fuel cycle to enrich uranium. Natural uranium contains approximately 0.7% uranium-235 (U-235), the fissile isotope, while the majority is uranium-238 (U-238). Gas centrifuges increase the concentration of U-235 to levels suitable for nuclear reactors or weapons by exploiting slight differences in molecular mass. Uranium hexafluoride (UF6) gas is commonly used because it can be easily manipulated in gaseous form at relatively low temperatures and pressure.

In operation, the UF6 gas is introduced into a rapidly spinning rotor, creating a strong centrifugal field. The heavier U-238 isotopes tend to move toward the outer edge of the rotor, while the lighter U-235 isotopes concentrate closer to the center. Multiple centrifuge stages may be cascaded to achieve the desired level of enrichment, with each stage incrementally increasing U-235 concentration.

Gas centrifugation is favored over older methods such as gaseous diffusion due to its higher efficiency, lower energy consumption, and smaller physical footprint. It has become the predominant technology for uranium enrichment worldwide, with key production facilities located in various countries.

While the process itself is technically complex, it is highly effective for isotope separation. Its proliferation, however, raises international security concerns due to its potential application in nuclear weapons development.