The PUREX (Plutonium Uranium Recovery by EXtraction) Process is a chemical method used to separate plutonium and uranium from spent nuclear fuel, enabling the recycling of these materials for further use in nuclear reactors. This process utilizes a liquid-liquid extraction technique with tributyl phosphate in a hydrocarbon solvent to selectively extract uranium and plutonium from a nitric acid solution containing dissolved nuclear fuel components.

PUREX Process

Plutonium Uranium Recovery

Chemical method

Spent nuclear fuel, a byproduct of nuclear reactors, remains highly radioactive and requires careful long-term management and storage solutions to prevent environmental contamination and ensure safety. The management of this waste involves complex considerations including transportation, storage, reprocessing, and disposal in geologically stable repositories.

Spent Nuclear Fuel

Recycling of materials

Nuclear reactors are devices used to initiate and control a sustained nuclear chain reaction, primarily for electricity generation or research purposes. They operate on the principle of nuclear fission, where the nucleus of an atom splits into smaller parts, releasing a significant amount of energy in the process.

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