Industries Served

Nuclear Power

Nuclear power is energy that has been produced by way of a controlled nuclear reaction. Several nations utilize nuclear power plants in order to generate electricity for both military and civilian use. Some nations also use nuclear energy to run naval fleets, particularly submarines. There is a population that is in favor of expanding nuclear power plants because they feel that this type of energy is cleaner than using fossil fuels like coal. However, nuclear power plants come with their own set of problems that need to be taken into consideration. For example, the issue of disposing radioactive waste safely is a huge discussion.

To begin the process of generating nuclear power, uranium and other radioactive elements are mined and processed. These elements then go into the power plants reactor. A reaction called fission, which culminates in intense heat, turns water into steam. This steam is used to power turbines, which in turn generate electricity and put that electricity into an electrical grid. During the process, reactors need to be carefully monitored. A runaway nuclear reaction has to be stopped immediately in order to ward off serious problems. Quality nuclear power plants will have automated systems that identify trouble spots and will re-route power if there's an issue. The system will also turn off a portion of the plant and perform multiple task to keep the plant safe and clean.

The biggest advantage of nuclear energy is that it does not produce greenhouse gases. However, it does produce hazardous waste, and many underdeveloped countries are simply not outfitted to handle this waste. Nuclear fuel that has been used is radioactive and highly dangerous. An entire infrastructure is required to handle and transport this fuel and radioactive elements. While there are many positives to nuclear energy, it’s important to have the money available to oversee this process.