nuclearmaterial

Nuclear material refers to substances that are used in or produced by nuclear processes and are regulated due to radiological hazards and potential for misuse. It encompasses fissile and fertile materials used for energy production, military applications, research, medicine, and industry, as well as certain radioactive sources.

Common examples include natural and depleted uranium, enriched uranium, plutonium, and uranium-233, along with other radioactive isotopes employed in industrial radiography, medical imaging, and treatment. Fissile materials are capable of sustaining a nuclear chain reaction when arranged in an appropriate configuration, while fertile materials can be converted into fissile isotopes in a reactor.

International and national regimes regulate nuclear material to prevent theft, diversion, or illicit trafficking. The IAEA implements safeguards to verify declared inventories and detect anomalies, under treaties such as the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Countries maintain material accountancy, licensing, and physical protection measures for transport, storage, and use.

Handling and disposal require specialized facilities and procedures to minimize radiological exposure and environmental impact. Lifecycle stages include mining and milling, conversion and enrichment (for suitable materials), fuel fabrication, reactor use, and options at end of life such as reprocessing or disposal. Safety, security, and nonproliferation considerations guide all activities involving nuclear material.