Enriching uranium

Enriching nuclear fuels

Description

Enriching uranium is the process of increasing the proportion of the fissile isotope uranium-235 in natural uranium to make it suitable for use as nuclear fuel or in weapons. This is achieved through technologies such as gas centrifugation or gaseous diffusion. The primary intent is to produce material capable of sustaining nuclear reactions, thereby addressing energy generation needs or national security requirements, while also necessitating strict controls to prevent proliferation and ensure safe handling.

Implementation

All civil uranium enrichment in Europe is carried out by two international consortia. At the nuclear reactor fuel fabrication plant in Pierrelatte, France, the EURODIF plant is enrichment by gaseous diffusion. The French CEA is developing a laser enrichment process (SILVA) with a view to having it operation some time during the decade 2000-2100.