Why in the News?
- Centrifuges play a crucial role in uranium enrichment, which is necessary for nuclear power generation and weapons development.
- Natural uranium contains 3% U-238 and only 0.7% U-235. Since only U-235 is fissile, it must be enriched for use in reactors and weapons.
- Nuclear power reactors require uranium with 3-20% U-235, while nuclear weapons need 90% enrichment.
- Iran’s uranium enrichment program has drawn global attention, with thousands of advanced centrifuges being deployed.
What is a Centrifuge?
- A centrifuge is a device that separates substances based on density using centrifugal force.
- Used extensively in scientific research, medical applications, and nuclear technology.
How Centrifuges work in Uranium Enrichment
- Uranium conversion: Uranium is converted into uranium hexafluoride (UF₆)
- Centrifugation process: UF₆ gas is introduced into high-speed centrifuges spinning at 50,000 RPM (revolutions per minute).
- Heavier U-238 isotopes move outward, while lighter U-235 isotopes concentrate towards the center.
- Gradual Enrichment: The U-235-rich fraction is transferred to additional centrifuges to increase purity further.
- Over multiple separation stages, uranium is enriched to the desired levels.
Key Components of a Centrifuge
- Rotor: The spinning component that creates centrifugal force.
- Chamber: Holds the uranium gas for separation.
- Material: Typically made of carbon fiber or other lightweight yet strong materials to withstand high speeds.
