- How Can Nuclear Technology Reduce Emissions?
- Challenges Faced by Nuclear Technology
- The Utilization of Nuclear Technology Worldwide
Nuclear energy, also known as nuclear fission, is a process in which an atomic particle splits into two nuclei. This process generates a significant amount of energy that spreads into the surrounding environment. Typically, the element used in the nuclear fission process is uranium-235. Simply put, nuclear fission works by firing neutrons at uranium-235 atoms.
The contact between the neutron and the uranium-235 atom causes the atom to split into two parts, resulting in uranium-236 which is very unstable. This instability leads uranium-236 to release neutrons, which in turn strike other uranium-235 atoms, causing them to split as well. This chain reaction of splitting and neutron firing occurs continuously, releasing a tremendous amount of energy.
How Can Nuclear Technology Reduce Emissions?
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The fission reaction that occurs within a nuclear reactor can produce a significant amount of energy due to the dissipation of kinetic energy from neutrons colliding with uranium-235 atoms. The product of this process is generally heat, which can be utilized by humans. Nuclear reactors typically work by using the heat generated from the nuclear fission reaction to heat water until it turns into high-pressure steam. This steam is then directed into turbines connected to an electric generator.
Nuclear reactors use uranium-235 as their fuel source. Uranium-235 is known to have an exceptionally high energy density, meaning that a small amount of uranium-235 is sufficient to operate a nuclear reactor for decades. One kilogram of enriched uranium can produce energy equivalent to 10,000–15,000 kilograms of coal.
This is why nuclear energy is considered an environmentally friendly alternative for renewable energy production. Furthermore, nuclear energy does not involve the combustion of fossil fuels. The emissions produced by nuclear reactors also lack harmful substances such as carbon dioxide or sulfur that could damage the Earth’s ozone layer.
Challenges Faced by Nuclear Technology
Nuclear reactors in nuclear power plants can generate a significant amount of energy efficiently without polluting the surrounding environment. However, this advantage does not mean that nuclear reactors can operate easily. Nuclear reactors contain immense energy, and if they are not operated with proper safety standards and precision, they can lead to disasters.
Despite these advantages, nuclear reactors are undeniably sensitive and vulnerable systems. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has established guidelines that countries must meet to manage nuclear energy responsibly. Additionally, Article 10 of the Convention on Nuclear Safety regulates that every organization or entity involved in nuclear installations must prioritize nuclear safety in their policies.
This convention was ratified by Indonesia on September 20, 1994, alongside the enactment of Presidential Decree No. 106 of 2001, concerning the ratification of the nuclear safety convention. Several factors must be considered when building a nuclear reactor in a specific location, such as geographical conditions and tectonic plate fault lines, to prevent nuclear disasters caused by natural events, as exemplified by the Fukushima Power Plant incident during the tsunami in Japan in 2011.
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Fukushima accident
Apart from the considerations in constructing and installing nuclear reactors, proper waste management is also crucial. This is because spent nuclear fuel is highly radioactive and can be dangerous to the environment and humans. The radioactive waste produced by nuclear power plants must be handled carefully to prevent environmental contamination. The disposal of radioactive waste should also adhere to methods and practices that prioritize the safety and security of those managing it.
The Utilization of Nuclear Technology Worldwide
Nuclear technology today is not only used as an energy source to meet human electricity needs but also finds applications in medicine, transportation, exploration, and the military. In the medical field, radiotherapy is widely used for cancer treatment, as well as imaging techniques based on the principle of radioisotopes. The radiation produced from these processes can be targeted at cancer cells, damaging their DNA and leading to their destruction.
When combined with chemotherapy, this method helps to alleviate cancer symptoms. Additionally, technetium-99 is employed in organ imaging by emitting radiation that can be detected by specialized cameras to produce images of human body organs. Beyond medical uses, several countries utilize nuclear technology for military operations. For instance, U.S. Navy aircraft carriers such as the Nimitz-class and Gerald R. Ford-class harness nuclear power as their energy source.
These carriers require only a few hundred kilograms of uranium as nuclear reactor fuel, enabling them to operate for 20–25 years before needing a fuel refill. If you are exploring different approaches to energy transition or low-carbon project development, including high-tech like this, an online consultation session with experts can be a starting point in formulating the right strategy. Get technical and policy guidance tailored to your project needs through our Carbon Project and Offsets Advisory Services