nuclear fuel recycling
Nuclear fuel recycling is the process of reprocessing spent nuclear fuel to extract usable materials, such as uranium and plutonium. This helps reduce the amount of radioactive waste and allows these materials to be reused in new nuclear reactors, making energy production more efficient and sustainable.
The recycling process involves chemical treatments that separate valuable isotopes from waste products. By recycling nuclear fuel, countries can decrease their reliance on fresh uranium mining and minimize the environmental impact associated with both mining and waste disposal. This practice is part of a broader strategy to promote nuclear energy as a cleaner energy source.