tuumainesed
Tuumainesed is a term used in Estonian to refer to nuclear materials—substances that participate in nuclear processes or emit ionizing radiation. In technical contexts it is often replaced by more specific terms such as tuumaained or tuumaine aine, depending on whether the reference is to fuel, isotopes, or other materials used in nuclear technology. Nuclear materials are classified by function and risk, including fissile materials, fertile materials, and radioactive isotopes.
- Fissile materials are capable of sustaining a nuclear chain reaction under appropriate conditions. Common examples include
- Fertile materials can be converted into fissile isotopes in a reactor, such as uranium-238 and thorium-232.
- Radioactive isotopes, used in medicine and industry, include cobalt-60, iodine-131, and technetium-99m.
Other nuclear materials include coolants, moderators, cladding, and shielding components used in reactors and radiological facilities.
Handling and regulation: Nuclear materials are subject to strict safety, security, and environmental controls. International and
Applications: Nuclear materials underpin energy production in reactors, medical diagnostics and therapy with isotopes, and scientific
Health and environment: Exposure to radiation is managed through shielding, containment, monitoring, and adherence to regulatory
See also: Nuclear physics, Nuclear fuel cycle, Radioactive waste, Radiation safety.