Nuclear Technology: From Fission to Fusion

Nuclear technology encompasses both fission and fusion reactions, providing significant potential for energy generation. Fission, the splitting of heavy nuclei, is widely used in nuclear power plants, while fusion, the combining of light nuclei, holds promise for future energy solutions. Ensuring safety standards and regulatory frameworks is crucial for the sustainable and safe development of nuclear power.

An Overview of Nuclear Technology

Types of Nuclear Reactions

• There are two primary types of nuclear reactions: nuclear fission and nuclear fusion. 
• Nuclear Fission: It is the process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus into two or more lighter nuclei, accompanied by the release of a large amount of energy. 
  • The neutrons produced during fission can trigger subsequent fission reactions in nearby fissile nuclei, creating a self-sustaining chain reaction. 
  • This is the basis for energy production in nuclear power plants.
• Nuclear Fusion: It is the process of combining two light atomic nuclei to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a large amount of energy. 
  • Common fusion fuels include isotopes of hydrogen, such as deuterium and tritium.
• Experimental projects like ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) aim to develop practical and controlled nuclear fusion for energy production.

General differences between nuclear fission and nuclear fusion

Nuclear Reactor

• It is a complex system designed to initiate and control nuclear reactions for the purpose of generating electricity or producing heat. The key principle behind a nuclear reactor is the controlled fission (splitting) of atomic nuclei, releasing a significant amount of energy. 

Types of Reactors

Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)

• • It is a type of nuclear reactor that uses heavy water (deuterium oxide, D2O) as both a moderator and a coolant. 
  • PHWRs are commonly employed for electricity generation and are known for their unique characteristics. 

• Key features and components 

• • PHWRs typically use natural uranium (uranium-238) as fuel. Unlike enriched uranium used in some other reactor types, natural uranium can sustain a nuclear chain reaction without the need for extensive enrichment.
  • Boron control rods are used to regulate the rate of the nuclear chain reaction by absorbing neutrons. 
  • By adjusting the position of these control rods, operators can control the reactor’s power output.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

• SMRs are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors.
• SMRs, which can produce a large amount of low-carbon electricity, are,
  • Small: Physically a fraction of the size of a conventional nuclear power reactor.
  • Modular: Making it possible for systems and components to be factory-assembled and transported as a unit to a location for installation.
• Reactors: Harnessing nuclear fission to generate heat to produce energy.

Safety Standards In Nuclear Power Plants

Safety standards in nuclear power plants are of utmost importance to ensure the protection of human health, the environment, and to prevent accidents that could lead to the release of radioactive materials. 

• • These standards are developed and enforced by national regulatory bodies, international organizations, and the nuclear industry itself. 

• Key aspects of safety standards in nuclear power plants

• • Regulatory Framework:
    • Each country with nuclear power plants has a regulatory body responsible for overseeing the safety of nuclear facilities. 
    • Example: Independent regulatory bodies like the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) in India establish and enforce strict safety standards for nuclear power plants.

• International Standards:

• • Organizations such as the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) play crucial roles in developing and promoting international safety standards. 
  • The IAEA’s safety standards provide guidance and recommendations that member states can adopt to enhance the safety of their nuclear facilities.

(ITER)/Artificial Sun Experiment

The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is a major international research project focused on nuclear fusion. [UPSC 2016]

• Global Collaborative Effort: ITER represents a collaborative effort involving 35 countries, including the European Union, the United States, Russia, China, India, Japan, and South Korea. 
• The Artificial Sun Experiment: ITER is often referred to as the “Artificial Sun Experiment” because it aims to replicate the conditions and processes that occur in the sun to generate energy on Earth.
• India’s Contribution to ITER: India contributes both financially and in terms of expertise. Researchers from Indian institutions collaborate with their international counterparts on various aspects of plasma physics, diagnostics, and other fusion-related fields.

Conclusion

The advancement of nuclear technology, with innovations like Small Modular Reactors and ongoing fusion research, is pivotal for a sustainable energy future. 

• India’s strategic initiatives in nuclear power and active participation in global projects highlight its commitment to harnessing nuclear energy responsibly. 
• Adherence to rigorous safety standards and international cooperation are essential to maximizing the benefits of nuclear energy while minimizing risks. The ongoing efforts in both fission and fusion promise a diverse and secure energy mix for the future.