Physics Commons^™

Spatially Resolved Optical Absorption Spectrometry And Single Crystal Diffraction On Metamict Materials, Alison Savage, Oliver Tschauner, Sergey Tkachev

Undergraduate Research Opportunities Program (UROP)

A major goal in developing storage medium for radioactive waste is the identification of chemically suitable and durable material for storage in repositories (Lumpkin 2006). Radiation damage induces enhanced chemical diffusion and structural breakdown of the host materials, which can lead to contamination of the surrounding environment. During this project four different naturally occurring materials which are common carriers of thorium and uranium were examined : gadolinite, perrierite, allanite, and pyrochlore of which the first three are silicates and pyrochlore being an oxide. Their spectra and absorptions bands were examined to identify prominent features due to radiation damage. The goal …

Nuclear Energy, Steve Kraft

Native American Forum on Nuclear Issues

Abstract:

-Why Nuclear Energy?

-The lesson of the last 20 years in U.S. electricity policy:

– Diversified fuel and technology portfolio is essential

– All fuels and technologies (nuclear, coal, natural gas, renewables, efficiency) have a legitimate role

-The challenge for the future:

– Preserving/restoring diversified portfolio

– Ensuring resource adequacy, particularly in competitive markets

-Expanded use of nuclear energy is part of the answer

– Integrated used fuel management supports nuclear competitiveness