Synthesis of Pu239: Understanding the Nuclear Reaction from U238 to Fuel

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SUMMARY

The synthesis of Pu239 from U238 occurs in a breeder reactor, utilizing surplus neutrons to facilitate the conversion process. The nuclear equation for this reaction is U238 + neutron → U239 + gamma → Np239 + beta → Pu239 + beta. This process involves neutron capture followed by two successive beta decays, resulting in a change in atomic number from 92 (Uranium) to 94 (Plutonium), while the mass number remains at 239.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear reactions and fission processes.
  • Familiarity with breeder reactor operations.
  • Knowledge of neutron capture and beta decay mechanisms.
  • Basic grasp of atomic structure, including atomic number and mass number.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the operational principles of breeder reactors.
  • Study neutron capture processes in nuclear physics.
  • Explore the implications of Pu239 in nuclear fuel cycles.
  • Investigate the safety and environmental considerations of using breeder reactors.
USEFUL FOR

Nuclear physicists, reactor engineers, and anyone interested in advanced nuclear fuel technologies and the conversion processes in nuclear reactors.

scorpio_wan1945
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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 :)
 
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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.
 

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