Fall 2009 MNGT 4389 Nuclear Group - Presentation #2

1. Nuclear Energy – Presentation 2 7 December 2009 Tyler Bowers Amanda Lavergne Michael Sadler Leticia Sandoval

2. How Nuclear Energy Works8 Power is created by the process of fission using enriched uranium. Fission splits the atom into two or more smaller nuclei with kinetic energy, while releasing gamma radiation and free neutrons. A portion of these neutrons may later be absorbed by other fissile atoms that create more fissions, which is called a chain reaction. The chain reaction is released in the form of heat, which is harnessed to generate electricity. The heat is transferred into to a boiler to make pressurized steam The steam then passes through a turbine that create electric energy. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjgdgAhOzXQ&feature=related

3. The Economics Behind Nuclear Plants9 Nuclear power plants have immense start up costs, ranging from $6 - $10 million dollars. As of today, nuclear power is not as cost effective as coal and natural gas Capital costs Operational and maintenance costs Construction costs The cost of operating a nuclear facility can also be significantly increased due to the level of expertise needed to ensure safety.

4. Regulatory/Professional Agencies in the Nuclear Industry The United States Department of Energy (DOE) The United States Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) Nuclear Energy Institute (NEI) International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) American Nuclear Society (ANS)