Spent nuclear fuel is anything but waste
The US lags behind other countries in nuclear fuel recycling due to unfounded concerns and myths. Reprocessing spent fuel can recover significant energy value and reduce high-level nuclear waste volume.
Search results for “Nuclear Energy”
1,000+ results for "Nuclear Energy"
Enhancing nuclear security: Training and international collaboration
The European Commission's Joint Research Centre has created a European nuclear security training centre to train first responders at the EU level. The centre offers a balanced approach between theoretical lectures and hands-on sessions, covering topics such as nuclear forensics and radiological crime scene management. International col...
Planning for a nuclear future
Researchers from six UK universities are studying how daily radiation exposure damages graphite blocks in nuclear power reactors. The study aims to help nuclear utility companies plan for the future and improve manufacturing processes.
CSHL study finds that 2 non-coding RNAs trigger formation of a nuclear subcompartment
Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory discovered that two non-coding RNAs, MENε and MENβ, trigger the formation of nuclear subcompartments called paraspeckles. Paraspeckles are believed to serve as storage depots for pre-made protein-coding RNA, allowing cells to respond faster to stress.
URI geologist develops improved seismic model for monitoring nuclear explosions in Middle East
Researchers have created a more accurate seismic model to detect nuclear explosions and differentiate them from natural events. The model spans the complex tectonic region of Turkey to India, and will improve location and characterization of seismic events while reducing errors.
Scientists forecast new atom smashers to keep Europe leading in nuclear physics
The European Science Foundation forecasts the need for powerful new accelerator facilities to tackle fundamental questions in nuclear physics, focusing on energy, health, and environmental problems. This will enhance skills in advanced techniques transferred to industries, ensuring access to expertise in low-carbon energy, medical diag...
Study assesses nuclear power assumptions
A study reviews nuclear power economics and concludes that the current fuel cycle is unsustainable due to uncertainty about waste management. Reprocessing and recycling of spent fuel is an alternative, but its implementation is controversial due to proliferation risks and high costs.
SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalJournal of Renewable and Sustainable Energy·DateNov 30, 2010
Nuclear materials detector shows exact location of radiation sources
A new gamma-ray detector, Polaris, can pinpoint and show the exact location of radiation sources, unlike conventional detectors. It provides a real-time image of the radiation source, allowing inspectors to navigate towards it with precision.
US nuclear safety claim is a 'dangerous fantasy'
Research published in the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists warns that US missile defense systems are not reliable and would not be effective in combat conditions. The authors propose a new drone-based system as an alternative, which could reliably intercept long-range ballistic missiles before they reach their targets.
Changes in energy R&D needed to combat climate change
A new assessment warns that current imbalances in energy technology R&D portfolios will hinder climate change mitigation unless investments in energy efficiency are increased. Energy efficiency accounts for up to 50% of potential GHG emissions reductions, yet receives less than 10% of overall public sector investment.
SourceInternational Institute for Applied Systems Analysis·JournalCarbon Management·DateOct 25, 2010
Scientists find signals that make cell nucleus blow up like a balloon
Researchers found that proteins importing structural material and regulating its import determine cell size. By manipulating these proteins, they can make a smaller species' nuclei balloon up to the size of a larger one. This discovery could lead to new insights into nuclear size regulation in cancer cells.
Federal nuclear waste panel overlooks public mistrust, experts say
A renewed federal effort to fix the nation's stalled nuclear waste program is focusing too much on technological issues, neglecting public mistrust. Social science experts warn that ignoring these concerns increases the chances of repeating past failures, such as Yucca Mountain.
Scientists call for a global nuclear renaissance in new study
A new study proposes a 20-year plan to revive nuclear energy, aiming to replace aging power plants with efficient mini-reactors. The researchers suggest new reactor designs could use uranium more efficiently, reducing waste and ensuring energy security.
Experts say federal nuclear waste panel overlooks public mistrust
A special White House panel on high-level radioactive waste needs to focus more on social and political acceptability. Public mistrust has fueled failed attempts to effectively work with those affected, and addressing this is crucial for developing a publicly acceptable solution.
Rutgers nuclear physicists study 'magic' nature of tin
Researchers at Rutgers University studied the doubly magic isotope of tin with 50 protons and 82 neutrons, providing insights into its stability and potential formation in supernova explosions. The study's findings may also contribute to developing next-generation nuclear reactors and forensic analysis techniques.
Findings show promise for nuclear fusion test reactors
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered critical mechanisms for the plasma-material interface in nuclear fusion test reactors. The findings show promise for developing new coatings capable of withstanding extreme conditions inside the reactors.
BGU receives first US - Israel energy independence grant for light water reactor research
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have been awarded a US-Israel Energy Independence Partnership Grant to develop self-sustainable fuel cycles for light water reactors. The project aims to improve nuclear energy efficiency, reduce uranium enrichment needs, and extend available energy resources.
US Department of Energy awards $2.04 million to Rensselaer nuclear engineering program
The US Department of Energy has awarded nearly $1.3 million in funding to two research projects at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, focusing on improving the nuclear fuel cycle and developing next-generation nuclear reactors.
SNM's 2010 Annual Meeting reveals latest developments in molecular imaging and nuclear medicine
The meeting showcased groundbreaking research and development worldwide in molecular imaging and nuclear medicine, with a focus on using molecular imaging to understand disease mechanisms and improve patient health. Key findings included advances in Alzheimer's disease identification and recurrent prostate cancer detection.
Nuclear pores call on different assembly mechanisms at different cell cycle stages
Researchers identified two distinct mechanisms for nuclear pore complex assembly during interphase and post-mitotic stages, shedding light on cell cycle-dependent differences in nuclear membrane topology. The findings have implications for conditions such as cancer, developmental defects, and sudden cardiac arrest.
Bengt Roland Långström receives SNM's 2010 Georg Charles de Hevesy Nuclear Pioneer Award
Bengt Roland Långström, a professor at Uppsala University in Sweden, has been recognized for his work in nuclear medicine. He is being honored with the Georg Charles de Hevesy Nuclear Pioneer Award for his over 20 years of experience in synthesizing and applying radiolabeled tracers for PET.
NC State to play key role in DOE team on nuclear energy innovation
The Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors (CASL) uses advanced computer models to explore innovations in nuclear plant engineering and design, aiming to optimize safety and efficiency. North Carolina State University is playing a key leadership role in the program, receiving approximately $11 million in funding ove...
Applied nuclear physics for biomedicine, nuclear security and basic science
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory are developing gamma-ray detectors to improve cancer therapy using heavy-ion beams. The Compact Compton Imager 2 (CCI-2) is a compact imager that can provide real-time images of the ion beam's energy distribution in tumors.
$400,000 NRC grant to develop nuclear engineering faculty at Clemson
Clemson University has received a three-year, $400,000 faculty-development grant from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission to recruit and retain younger faculty in nuclear science. The grant will support Dr. Brian Powell and help establish an excellent base for his academic career.
Nuclear matrix proteins contribute to differentiation of gastric cancer cells
Research reveals that nuclear matrix proteins are differentially expressed during HMBA-induced differentiation of gastric cancer cells. Eight proteins were down-regulated while seven were up-regulated, with prohibitin, nucleophosmin, and hnRNP A2/B1 being significantly decreased in treated human gastric cancer cells.
Largest atlas of nuclear galactic rings unveiled
An international team of astrophysicists has created the most complete atlas of nuclear rings, which are enormous star-forming ring-shaped regions that circle certain galactic nuclei. The catalogue includes 113 such rings in 107 galaxies and provides insights into their properties and relationships with galaxy structure.
SourceSpanish Foundation for Science and Technology·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateApr 29, 2010
Neglected infection control is better investment than nuclear weaponry
The article argues that investing in neglected disease control is a more effective use of resources than maintaining nuclear arsenals. With $1 billion, the 11 nuclear power states could eliminate or control neglected infections, which account for up to 50% of global diseases.
Inaugural issue of OSA's Energy Express focuses on gaining energy with solar concentrators
The inaugural issue of OSA's Energy Express highlights research on solar concentrators, which aim to increase the efficiency of solar energy generation. New devices and technologies are being developed to concentrate sunlight, making solar power more economical and efficient.
Safer nuclear reactors could result from Los Alamos research
Los Alamos researchers report a mechanism allowing nanocrystalline materials to heal radiation-induced damage through 'loading-unloading' effect at grain boundaries. This discovery provides new avenues for designing highly radiation-tolerant materials for next-generation nuclear energy applications.
Springer enters into partnership with the Korean Society of Nuclear Medicine
Springer has partnered with the Korean Society of Nuclear Medicine (KSNM) to publish the journal Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. The journal will be available in both print and electronic formats, providing a platform for high-quality research and discussion on nuclear medicine and related sciences.
Strategic cooperation sets the scene for geological disposal of nuclear waste in Europe
In Europe, strategic cooperation on geological disposal of nuclear waste is crucial for its safe implementation. The IGD-TP platform facilitates stakeholder collaboration to resolve scientific, technological and social challenges.
Nuclear verification: helping to find a needle in a hay stack
The European Commission Joint Research Centre is developing high-sensitivity particle analysis to detect nuclear materials in aerosol particles. The new laboratory will increase detection speed and sensitivity by a factor of ten, improving safeguards particle analysis.
APS physicists release nuclear downsizing report
The American Physical Society has released a report outlining concrete steps to help the US achieve its goals of downsize the nuclear arsenal, prevent the spread of atomic bombs, and keep the stockpile safe and secure. The report recommends technologies such as nuclear archaeology to validate nations' production of atomic material.
Nuclear pore complexes harbor new class of gene regulators
Researchers at Salk Institute found that nucleoporins, proteins in nuclear pore complexes, act as transcription factors regulating genes during early development. They also offer new insights into cancer mechanisms and potential markers for causes of cancer.
Child-specific doses for pediatric PET patients
A new study provides clear pediatric PET dose guidelines, allowing clinicians to calculate the optimal radiotracer dose based on a child's weight. The findings suggest that patients can receive high-quality images with reduced scan time or lower doses, minimizing radiation exposure for young children.
SourceSociety of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging·JournalJournal of Nuclear Medicine·DateFeb 1, 2010
Using supercomputers to explore nuclear energy
A new computer algorithm developed by researchers at Argonne National Laboratory allows scientists to view nuclear fission in much finer detail than ever before. The code has already produced new scientific results through highly detailed simulations of the Zero Power Reactor experiments on powerful supercomputers.
NRC rewards Penn State nuclear engineering efforts
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission has awarded Penn State's nuclear engineering program nearly $1 million to boost nuclear education and expand the workforce. The funding will support a radiochemistry education program with a new laboratory course providing hands-on experience for students.
Advanced nuclear fuel sets global performance record
Researchers achieved a world record by consuming approximately 19% of its low-enriched uranium, more than double the previous record. The advanced fuel design demonstrates robustness and safety, paving the way for commercial-scale HTGR fuel production.
Come on in: Nuclear barrier less restrictive than expected in new cells
Two studies suggest the nuclear envelope's permeability barrier reopens briefly after mitosis, allowing large proteins to enter the nucleus by passive diffusion. This dynamic process has important implications for cellular compartmentalization and genetic material regulation.
Superheavy element 114 confirmed by Berkeley Lab nuclear scientists
Researchers at Berkeley Lab independently confirmed the production of two individual nuclei of element 114, each with 114 protons but different numbers of neutrons. The discovery removes doubts about the validity of previous claims and paves the way for further exploration of superheavy elements.
New INL project tackles nuclear fuel recycling science
A new research project at Idaho National Laboratory will use an innovative approach to learn how to get more use from nuclear fuel. The team plans to put pure samples of common actinides into the Advanced Test Reactor, which will then be analyzed using accelerator mass spectroscopy.
New INL project will improve nuclear reactor simulations
Researchers at Idaho National Laboratory and Brookhaven National Laboratory will develop more accurate reactor simulations using data from experiments performed around the world. The new approach combines information from atomic level to meter scale, covering an unprecedented range of 15 orders of magnitude.
Magnetic moments of 33Mg in the time-odd relativistic mean field approach
The study of 33Mg's ground state properties reveals a prolate deformed nucleus with well-reproduced energy and magnetic moment. The time-odd relativistic mean field approach successfully explains the experimental data without introducing parameters.
K-State mechanical and nuclear engineers receive award for top-100 technology product of the year
Researchers at Kansas State University have developed a microstructured semiconductor neutron detector, receiving an R¼D 100 Award for its innovative technology. The device has thousands of tiny perforations that detect neutrons and can be used for various applications.
Key issues for the future of wind energy
Wind energy could account for 30% of Spain's overall energy production by 2030, according to a study. The proposal also suggests a mix of solar energy and gas turbines to achieve this goal, while reducing carbon emissions. Additionally, the sector has generated 226% more jobs in the European Union since 2003.
NRC supports nuclear engineering at Virginia Tech
The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has awarded nearly $20 million to Virginia Tech's nuclear engineering program for faculty development and fellowships. The funding will support the growth of a workforce capable of designing, constructing, and operating nuclear facilities.
UC San Diego scientist's work will contribute to better understanding of nuclear ignition
UC San Diego researcher Hoanh Vu is working on a three-year grant project to study laser-plasma interactions for safe nuclear ignition. His research could lead to the development of nuclear fusion as an alternative energy source, increasing safety and security in nuclear stockpile stewardship.
Toward limitless energy: National Ignition Facility focus of symposium, Aug. 19-20
Scientists at National Ignition Facility will focus on limitless energy production through nuclear fusion, a potential game-changer for electricity generation. The symposium aims to advance nuclear chemistry and provide new insights into the universe.
FSU research group wins $1 million grant to study nuclear fuels
A Florida State University research group has received a $1 million grant to develop new theoretical models for studying the microstructure of nuclear reactor fuels. The goal is to improve fuel reliability and performance, reducing the risk of mechanical failure and radioactive element release.
Queen's engineers receive $6.9M to build nuclear materials testing facility
Queen's University researchers will develop a unique capability to test nuclear materials in simulated reactor conditions using accelerator technology. The Nuclear Materials Testing Facility aims to improve understanding of materials degradation and development of materials for advanced reactors.
University of Nevada, Reno mathematician receives nuclear energy grant to study reactors
Pavel Solin will use advanced computational methods to improve reactor simulations and support the design of next-generation reactors. The project aims to prolong the useful life of old reactors and make nuclear energy more efficient.
SNM honors originators of imaging agent for nuclear heart stress test
Alan Davison, Alun G. Jones, and Michael J. Abrams discovered a new class of technetium complexes that showed localization in cardiac tissue after intravenous administration, leading to the development of myocardial perfusion imaging agents. Their work has enabled millions of people to receive better diagnosis and treatment for heart c...
Research identifies 3-D structure of key nuclear pore building block
Researchers have for the first time visualized the three-dimensional structure of a crucial subcomplex of the nuclear pore complex (NPC), a fundamental innovation in multicellular life. The findings support a common architecture between NPCs and coated vesicles, revealing an ancient evolutionary connection.
Regulation of cell proliferation by the OGF-OGFr axis is dependent on nuclear localization signals
The Opioid Growth Factor (OGF) and its receptor (OGFr) play a crucial role in regulating cell proliferation by modulating cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitors. The study found that transport of OGFr into the nucleus required two out of three nuclear localization signals, highlighting the importance of this pathway in cancer treatment.
SourceSociety for Experimental Biology and Medicine·JournalExperimental Biology and Medicine·DateApr 23, 2009
Values predict attitudes toward nuclear power
A new study published in Risk Analysis found that public support for nuclear power is highest among those who trust the industry and hold traditional values. The study's findings suggest that increasing public trust in the nuclear industry is crucial for a resurgence of nuclear power in the US.
New RFID technology tracks and monitors nuclear materials
The Argonne National Laboratory has developed a unique tracking technology that monitors the environmental and physical conditions of containers of nuclear materials in storage and transportation. This RFID system can simultaneously monitor thousands of drums 24/7, triggering alarms for immediate action upon detecting abnormal situations.
'Cold fusion' rebirth? New evidence for existence of controversial energy source
Researchers have reported compelling new scientific evidence for the existence of LENR, producing neutrons and excess heat. The study uses an electrode composed of nickel or gold wire to detect subatomic particles released during reactions.
Nuclear fusion-fission hybrid could contribute to carbon-free energy future
Physicists at the University of Texas at Austin have designed a system that uses fusion to eliminate most of the transuranic waste produced by nuclear power plants. This invention could help combat global warming by making nuclear power a more viable replacement for carbon-heavy energy sources.
Obama and the opportunity to eliminate nuclear weapons
Physicians around the world are urging US President Barack Obama to prioritize nuclear abolition as a matter of global health and security. The current nuclear arsenal poses an existential threat to human life and the environment.
SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateJan 19, 2009
Argonne's modeling and simulation expertise to explore alternative sustainable sources of energy
Researchers will conduct simulations of advanced nuclear energy systems using powerful IBM Blue Gene/P supercomputer. The work aims to develop precise computer simulations of next-generation nuclear systems, reducing costs and improving safety.