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Plutonium 240
Context
Researchers have reported the results of the rst attempt to measure the PFNS of induced ssion in Pu-240 with neutrons of energy greater than 0.85 MeV.
About
- 240Pu is a radioactive isotope with a half-life of 6,561 years. It decays primarily through alpha emission, with a small fraction undergoing spontaneous fission.
- 240Pu is produced as a byproduct in nuclear reactors through the neutron capture of 239Pu. In typical reactor-grade plutonium, 240Pu constitutes about 20-30% of the total plutonium content.
- In civilian nuclear power, the presence of 240Pu in reactor-grade plutonium affects fuel performance and reactor design. Its tendency for spontaneous fission increases neutron emission, which can complicate reactor control and fuel handling procedures.
- The presence of 240Pu is a crucial factor in weapons-grade plutonium. Its high rate of spontaneous fission can lead to premature detonation in nuclear weapons, reducing yield and reliability. For this reason, weapons-grade plutonium typically contains less than 7% 240Pu.
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