ydinpolttoainekiertoa

Ydinpolttoainekierto (nuclear fuel cycle) refers to the series of industrial processes required to convert natural uranium into energy, as well as to manage the resulting nuclear waste. The process begins with mining uranium ore, which is then processed to extract uranium oxide (U3O8). This uranium oxide is converted into uranium hexafluoride (UF6), which is enriched to increase the concentration of the fissile isotope U-235. The enriched uranium is then used to fuel nuclear reactors, where it undergoes fission to produce heat and electricity.

The spent fuel from nuclear reactors, known as used nuclear fuel (UNF), contains a mix of fission products and remaining uranium isotopes. This UNF is highly radioactive and must be managed carefully. One common method of managing UNF is through reprocessing, where the fuel is dissolved and separated into its constituent elements. Plutonium and other transuranic elements can be extracted and reused in new fuel, a process known as recycling. The remaining waste, primarily high-level waste (HLW), is typically vitrified into a stable glass form for long-term storage or disposal.

The nuclear fuel cycle also includes the management of low-level waste (LLW) and intermediate-level waste (ILW), which are generated throughout the cycle. LLW includes items such as protective clothing, tools, and filters, while ILW includes materials like reactor components and shielding. Both types of waste require safe storage and disposal to protect the environment and human health.

The nuclear fuel cycle is a complex and multifaceted process that involves numerous stages and technologies. It is designed to maximize the energy output from uranium resources while minimizing the generation of long-lived radioactive waste. However, it also raises significant environmental, safety, and security concerns that must be carefully managed.