US picks potential partners for using Cold War-era plutonium as fuel
GS2Polity · Governance · IR· India's bilateral relations· Prelims + Mains·
Why in news
The US Department of Energy selected five companies, including Oklo, to discuss using surplus Cold War-era plutonium as fuel for nuclear reactors.
Background
The Trump administration plans to make approximately 20 metric tonnes of plutonium available to power companies. The US Department of Energy is initiating advanced talks with five selected companies.
Facts for Prelims
- S&TOklo: One of the five companies selected by the US Department of Energy to discuss using surplus plutonium as fuel.
- FactThe Trump administration plans to make approximately 20 metric tonnes of plutonium available to power companies.
- PostUS Department of Energy: The body responsible for selecting companies to utilize Cold War-era plutonium.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the security and economic implications of repurposing surplus Cold War-era plutonium for civilian nuclear energy generation.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Proliferation risk: Potential for weaponization of surplus plutonium material during transport and processing
- Economic viability: Balancing the high costs of plutonium processing against the benefits of reducing nuclear liabilities
Keywords: Nuclear proliferation · Nuclear liabilities · Energy security · Waste management · Strategic assets
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