Enrichment
The process of increasing the concentration of uranium-235 (the fissile isotope) in uranium fuel. Most commercial reactors need 3-5% enrichment (natural is 0.7%). Advanced reactors may need HALEU (5-20%).
Why It Matters
Enrichment is a critical and geopolitically sensitive step in the nuclear fuel cycle. Russia currently controls about 40% of global enrichment capacity, creating a supply chain vulnerability.
Related Topics
Related Terms
Uranium
A naturally occurring radioactive element used as fuel in nuclear reactors. Natural uranium is 99.3% U-238 and 0.7% U-235. Most reactors require enrichment to 3-5% U-235.
Nuclear Fission
The process of splitting a heavy atomic nucleus (such as uranium-235 or plutonium-239) into two lighter nuclei, releasing a large amount of energy. This is the reaction that powers all current nuclear power plants.