Long-term shortage of uranium resources

An anticipated long-term shortage of uranium resources for domestic and military uses activated intense geological exploration in the 1960s and 70s, with several new uranium mines being opened around the world.

1. In the 1960s, it was believed that a world shortage would send uranium prices above $400 per kg, forcing a shift to plutonium reactor fuel. In 1993, a kilo of uranium costs around $20, and the end of the Cold War has turned plutonium from a security asset (for the manufacture of weapons) into a burden.

1. Long-term shortage of mineral energy resources
2. Long-term shortage of metalliferous ores and metal scrap
3. Excessive costs

1. Dubious viability of nuclear fuel reprocessing plants

1. Uranium ores and concentrates and thorium trade instability

1. Reducing uranium surplus

1. Shortage
2. Short-termism
3. Excess
4. Costliness