IntroductionEnriched Uranium is a type of Uranium in which the percentage of Uranium 235 has been increased, through the process of isotope separation. The 2 main types of Uranium Isotopes are:
The 2 isotopes of Uranium cannot be separated chemically because they are identical in that form and so will have to undergo a process. These processes (Diffusion, Centrifuge and Laser) will separate the isotopes depending on their weight. They are usually put into the compound UF6 and are separated using a centrifuge/centrifugal force. Enriched Uranium can be used for different research reactors, power/propulsion in space and to make nuclear bombs. It is a critical component for both civil nuclear power generation and the production of military nuclear weapons. Through these processes, there is a form of Uranium called depleted Uranium that occurs as a result. These can be used as weights inside aeroplanes, since it is extremely heavy and dense. It can also be used for people studying Uranium in chemistry labs since it has a low radioactivity. Enriched Uranium has many advantages, dangers and disadvantages. It can be very helpful and significant if used properly but, if it falls into the wrong hands, can be very risky. |