Fission and Fusion

The splitting up of the nucleus is known as nuclear . Nuclear reactors generally use uranium 235 as a fuel, but one third use plutonium 239. Plutonium 239 is also used in nuclear warheads. For fission to occur the uranium 235 or plutonium 239 nucleus must first absorb a .

The nucleus undergoing fission splits into two smaller nuclei and 2 or 3 neutrons and energy is released. The neutrons may go on to start a chain reaction.

There is also a process known as nuclear which occurs naturally under the huge gravity conditions within a . During fusion two nuclei are forced together forming a one which also releases energy.

• Joint European Torus (JET) Fusion Project

  The JET device is currently the worlds largest Tokamak in operation. The JET facilities include plasma heating systems capable of delivering up to 30 megawatts of power, an Active Gas Handling System and a beryllium handling Facility providing JET with a unique Tritium and Beryllium capability, respectively.

  Over the next few years JET’s technical capabilities will be significantly enhanced in order to optimally support ITER’s final detail design and in preparation for exploiting ITER.