Nuclear equation for converting U238 to Pu239 in a breeder reactor

Join the discussion
Registration is free. Start your own thread to ask a follow-up.
Sign up Log in
2 replies · 3K views
scorpio_wan1945
Messages
12
Reaction score
0
Synthesis of Pu239 from Uranium 238.

as far as i know, this process occurs in a breeder reactor and surplus of neutrons are used to convert U238 to Pu 239 as useful fuel, since U238 is not fissionable.

could anyone enlighten me with a nuclear equation for this process?

thanks :)
 
Physics news on Phys.org

Discussion

i think i got the answer now...

U238 + neutron -> U239 + gamma -> Np239 + beta ->Pu239 + beta
 
scorpio_wan1945 said:
i think i got the answer now...

U238 + neutron -> U239 + gamma -> Np239 + beta ->Pu239 + beta
Yes - neutron capture followed by two beta decays in succession. Z changes from 92 to 94, while A (239) remains unchanged.