tuumakütust

Tuumakütust, also known as nuclear fuel, is a material that contains fissile isotopes and is used as the energy source in nuclear reactors. These fissile isotopes, most commonly Uranium-235 (U-235) or Plutonium-239 (Pu-239), undergo nuclear fission when struck by a neutron. This process releases a significant amount of energy in the form of heat, as well as more neutrons, which can then go on to cause further fission events, creating a sustained chain reaction.

The most common form of tuumakütust used in power reactors is uranium, typically enriched to contain a higher percentage of U-235 than found in natural uranium. This enriched uranium is usually fabricated into ceramic pellets, which are then sealed within metal tubes called fuel rods. These fuel rods are bundled together to form fuel assemblies, which are then loaded into the reactor core.

Other types of nuclear fuel exist, including those used in research reactors or for producing medical isotopes, which may utilize different isotopes or fuel forms. The design and composition of tuumakütust are critical for the safe and efficient operation of nuclear reactors, and are subject to strict regulatory oversight. Spent nuclear fuel, which is no longer efficient for generating power, requires careful management and disposal due to its residual radioactivity.