The Oklo Reactor is a natural nuclear reactor discovered in Gabon in 1972. It was created by a rare combination of circumstances that caused a nuclear chain reaction to occur. The reactor stopped working a billion and a half years ago and is not dangerous. It is impossible for a natural reaction to occur on […]
Breeder reactors create plutonium 239 as a byproduct of splitting uranium 235, producing more fuel than it uses. Fast breeder reactors use liquid sodium to keep neutrons at a higher energy level, which are absorbed by uranium 238 to create plutonium 239. However, the use of plutonium for nuclear weapons and the complex and expensive […]
A nuclear reactor vessel is a cylindrical structure that houses the reactor core and contains harmful radiation. It is used to refuel the reactor and access components for control systems. The vessel contains emergency core cooling systems and inlets/outlets for steam and water. It must be kept in equilibrium to avoid dangerous meltdowns. Nuclear reactors […]
An anaerobic reactor is used to break down organic materials in wastewater without oxygen. It is part of a larger treatment process and can be used in various industrial processes. The reactor uses filters and the Upflow Anaerobic Sludge Blanket (UASB) process to reduce waste and produce biogas. Anaerobic digestion breaks down organic compounds using […]
Breeder reactors create more nuclear fuel than they consume, with a breeding ratio representing the number of new fissile atoms created for each fission event. They can use unenriched uranium or thorium, which is more abundant and produces less nuclear waste. However, they also create a nuclear weapons risk, which can be addressed by pretreatment. […]
Biodiesel is made from plant sources and can be created naturally but takes a long time. Biodiesel reactors use transesterification to create glycerin and methyl esters, which is further refined to create biofuels. Ultrasonic reactors are used for large quantities and require less work, while shear reactors are more versatile but require more work. Biodiesel […]
Biofilm reactors use bacteria to produce substances like vinegar, ethanol, and lactic acid, as well as for wastewater treatment. Different types include membrane, fluidized bed, packed bed, airlift, and upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactors. Bacterial cells grow within a structural matrix and adhere to a surface, producing extracellular polymeric substances. Nutrients, temperature, and cell nature […]
A flow reactor continuously creates products by adding raw materials to a series of tubes, with temperature control and mixing methods such as coils, packings, and baffles. Catalysts can be added to aid reactions and ensure consistent product quality. Tube design and flow rates are important for achieving plug flow conditions. A flow reactor is […]
Nuclear reactors use fission to generate energy and can be used for electricity, fuel production, and research. Fuel rods are placed in a moderator and controlled with control rods. Coolant is used to transfer heat, which can be used to generate electricity. Safety devices are used to prevent accidents. A nuclear reactor is scientific equipment […]
A thermal reactor uses nuclear fission to produce electricity by splitting atoms, usually uranium. The heat generated is used to produce electricity, but the disposal of radioactive nuclear waste is a concern. A thermal reactor is equipment used to produce energy, usually in the form of electricity, through the process known as nuclear fission. In […]
A nuclear power reactor operator is responsible for safe operation of a nuclear power plant, including routine tasks, monitoring reactor systems, adjusting control rods and cooling systems, and managing startup and shutdown. They must follow safety protocols, communicate effectively with subordinates and supervisors, and exercise management skills. A nuclear power reactor operator is responsible for […]
