Learning Outcomes
By the end of this chapter you should be able to:
- Describe the relative importance of nuclear reactors as a world energy source.
- Discuss the recent history and short-term future of nuclear power.
- State three causes of public concern regarding nuclear energy.
- State the environmental costs and benefits of nuclear power.
- Define the different components of the nuclear fuel cycle.
- List and describe in detail the main steps in the reactor fuel cycle: mining and purification of uranium ore, enrichment, fuel fabrication, transport to site, utilisation, spent fuel storage, transport off site, and ultimate disposal options.
- Identify the nuclear safety and radiation safety issues involved in each of the steps outlined above.