Syllabus Coverage: NFC2.1
This chapter discusses the design and manufacture of nuclear reactor fuels. The hazards associated with unirradiated nuclear fuel are discussed in detail. Both fresh fuel (made from newly mined and enriched uranium) and recycled fuel (made from reprocessed uranium or plutonium) are considered, and the important differences between these fuel types are explained.
Understanding unirradiated fuel is essential because, although it is far less hazardous than irradiated (spent) fuel, it still presents radiological, criticality and safeguards concerns that must be properly managed throughout the fuel cycle.