[ RadSafe ] Plutonium from Power Reactors

[Jaro]

Brennan, Mike (DOH) wrote:

" as I recall Pu241 isn't particularly desirable in fuel, as it doesn't have
very good
characteristics "

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In fact, Pu241 is highly desirable for reactors, because in an epithermal
neutron spectrum, it has a better neutron production ratio than the other Pu
isotopes or even U233.
There is actually a patent based on this fact, by a well-known reactor
designer:
http://www.freepatentsonline.com/4968476.html
Title: Light water breeder reactor using a uranium-plutonium cycle
Document Type and Number:United States Patent 4968476
Inventors: Radkowsky, Alvin (Ramat Chen, IL)


As for separating Am out of the SNF along with the fission products, I
really have no idea whether that's feasible or actually done.....

 Jaro
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