Uranium,Thorium,what next?

  • Thread starter Stanley514
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In summary, heavier elements such as Iron, Tungsten, and Tantalum can be used in nuclear energetics to obtain energy profit through fission. However, the process is highly inefficient and only works for a few isotopes with a large probability of fissioning when absorbing a neutron, such as Uranium and Thorium. Plutonium can also be used for nuclear energy, but it is difficult to produce in large quantities. Research is being done on other transuranic elements, but their high radiation levels make fabrication and inspection challenging. Ultimately, the most important factor for nuclear energy production is the ability of the isotope to emit more than 2 neutrons per fission on average.
  • #1
Stanley514
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What periodic elements could be used in nuclear energetics to obtain energy profit?
It seems that every element heavier than Iron could undergo fission and give energy?
Could be such element as Tungsten or Tantalum used as fuel instead of Thorium?
 
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  • #2
You can spallate any element you like but the process is so inefficient it is impossible to have a net energy gain. The only way to make energy efficiently is through neutron chain reactions, and this only works for the few isotopes which have a large probability of fissioning when absorbing a neutron.

Besides U and Th, Plutonium can be made and fissioned economically, but that's pretty much it. There are other isotopes which are fissionable, such as Am and Cf, but we can't make these in large quantities efficiently.
 
  • #3
There is no effective fertile element lighter than (or Z less than) Th.

Some research is being done on Cm and Am fuels, and some exotic ideas with Cf. One problem with those transuranics is that they must be fabricated and inspected remotely because of the radation levels (gamma, beta and spontaneous fission).

Cm and Am are produced in significant quantities in MOX fuel.
 
  • #4
QuantumPion said:
Besides U and Th, Plutonium can be made and fissioned economically, but that's pretty much it. There are other isotopes which are fissionable, such as Am and Cf, but we can't make these in large quantities efficiently.

Quite right, however even more restrictive is the need for the isotope to emit more than 2 neutrons per fission on average.
 
  • #5


I can provide a response to your question. Uranium and Thorium are currently the two main elements used in nuclear energetics to obtain energy profit. However, there are other elements that could potentially be used as fuel in nuclear reactors.

One example is Plutonium, which is a byproduct of Uranium fission and is also used as a fuel in some nuclear reactors. Another element that has been studied for its potential use in nuclear reactors is Americium.

In terms of elements heavier than Iron, it is true that they can undergo fission and release energy. However, the feasibility and safety of using these elements as fuel in nuclear reactors are still being studied.

Regarding your suggestion of using elements like Tungsten or Tantalum as fuel instead of Thorium, it is important to consider the properties and behavior of these elements in a nuclear reactor. While they may have the potential to undergo fission, they may also have other properties that could make them unsuitable for use as fuel.

In conclusion, while there are potential alternatives to Uranium and Thorium as fuel in nuclear reactors, extensive research and testing would need to be done to determine their feasibility and safety. As scientists, it is important to continue exploring and studying different elements for their potential use in nuclear energetics.
 

1. What are Uranium and Thorium?

Uranium and Thorium are both naturally occurring elements found in the Earth's crust. They are both radioactive and are commonly used in nuclear power plants as fuel for generating electricity.

2. How are Uranium and Thorium used?

Uranium and Thorium are primarily used as fuel in nuclear power plants, but they also have other applications. Uranium is used in the production of nuclear weapons and in some medical procedures, while Thorium is used in certain types of lighting and as an alloy in metals.

3. What is the difference between Uranium and Thorium?

Uranium and Thorium have similar properties, but they differ in their atomic structures and how they undergo radioactive decay. Uranium is more commonly used in nuclear power plants due to its higher energy output, while Thorium is still being researched for its potential as a nuclear fuel.

4. Are there any potential risks associated with Uranium and Thorium?

Yes, both Uranium and Thorium are radioactive and can pose health and environmental risks if not handled properly. However, with proper safety measures in place, the risks can be minimized and controlled.

5. What is the future of nuclear energy with Uranium and Thorium?

The use of Uranium and Thorium in nuclear energy has been a topic of debate, with some advocating for the expansion of nuclear power plants and others pushing for alternative forms of energy. As technology and safety measures continue to improve, it is likely that nuclear energy will continue to play a role in our energy production, but the use of Uranium and Thorium may shift to a more sustainable and efficient approach.

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