Laser Processes - hdbk1113cn10063

DOE-HDBK-1113-98

Module 102 The Nuclear Fuel Cycle

Lesson Plan

Instructor's Notes

Laser Processes

The Atomic Vaporization Laser Isotope

Separation (AVLIS) involves vaporization,

selective ionization of one isotope, and

subsequent electrical separation.

Currently, no DOE production plants exist

which use thi s technology.

Nozzle Separation

The nozzle separation process is based on

the different speeds of 235U and 238U

compounds when t hey are injec ted through

a nozzle into a small chamber.

Centrifugal Separation

Centrifugal separation is based on heavier

compounds migrating to the outside when

spun at a high rate of speed.

The uranium left over from the enrichment process

is mostly 238U, with a reduced amount of 235U

(usually 0.2% by weight). This byproduct is called

"depleted uranium" and has additional uses such as

radiation shielding, armor plating, and ammunition.

During World War II, uranium work was secret and

code names were used for the different forms of

uranium. Natural uranium was named "Tuballoy,"

a name that grew out of a cover story that the Allies

were investigating alloys for high-quality tubing.