Uranium is a naturally occurring radioactive element. It is a very heavy metal and a small 10-centimetre metal cube weighs 20 kilograms! It’s specific activity (radioactivity per unit gram) is low. In its natural state, uranium consists of three isotopes (U-234 (0.0057%), U-235 (0.72%) and U-238 (99.28%). Out of the three isotopes, U-238 has the longest half life of 4.51 billion years. Isotopes of natural uranium decay by emitting mainly alpha particles. The emission of beta particles and gamma radiations are low. Uranium is found in trace amounts in all rocks and soil, in water and air, and in materials made from natural substances.
Natural uranium is used as nuclear fuel in Indian PHWR-type power reactors. On use in the reactors, the percentage of U-235 isotope gets reduced due to nuclear fission (burning) and the uranium recovered chemically from the “burnt” fuel after the reactor operation is called Depleted Uranium (DU). The depleted uranium produced in this method contains some fission-product contamination.
The depleted uranium is also the by-product of enrichment process used to produce fuel for certain other types of nuclear reactors and nuclear weapons. During the enrichment process the fraction of U-235 is increased from its natural level (0.72% by mass) to between 2% and 94% by mass. The by-product uranium mixture (after the enriched uranium is removed) has reduced concentrations of U-235. In depleted uranium, the percentage fraction of U-235 is less than 0.72% and can go down up to 0.2%. The DU is considerably less radioactive than natural uranium because it has lesser percentage of U-234 and U-235 per unit mass than natural uranium. The specific activity of uranium alone in DU is 14.8 Bq per mg compared with 25.4 Bq per mg for natural uranium. Becquerel (Bq) is the unit quantifying radioactivity.
DU is less harmful than natural uranium. However, according to the Indian Atomic Energy Act 1962, it is a Prescribed Substance and hence possession of the material in unauthorized persons is illegal.
The DU has more of industrial application (as heavy shield material against penetrating radiation like gamma rays) than military applications such as in the manufacturing of ammunitions used to pierce armour plating on tanks and in missile nose cones.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Monday, November 9, 2009
Social Networking for Nuclear Decommissioning
IAEA´s International Decommissioning Network (IDN) has begun using popular social networking tools to connect with more than 400 nuclear professionals in 60 countries all year round. The social networking sites will be used to face the challenge of delivering the right training to the right people world-wide. The decommissioning experts can share ideas and learn from each other.
It has proven difficult for some young nuclear professionals who are actually involved in day-to-day decommissioning to attend workshops, seminars and global site visits. So, the IDN´s coordinators at the IAEA are using non-traditional approaches to engage them.
The IDN provides hands-on experience in nuclear installations that are currently being decommissioned. The IDN now posts instructional videos online; videos which are available to more than 400 people working in this field. There are also plans to begin uploading more of these videos using an approach similar to that used by YouTube, thereby sharing critical, cutting-edge knowledge with professionals working in their own countries. An excellent idea to share nuclear knowledge!
It has proven difficult for some young nuclear professionals who are actually involved in day-to-day decommissioning to attend workshops, seminars and global site visits. So, the IDN´s coordinators at the IAEA are using non-traditional approaches to engage them.
The IDN provides hands-on experience in nuclear installations that are currently being decommissioned. The IDN now posts instructional videos online; videos which are available to more than 400 people working in this field. There are also plans to begin uploading more of these videos using an approach similar to that used by YouTube, thereby sharing critical, cutting-edge knowledge with professionals working in their own countries. An excellent idea to share nuclear knowledge!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
What is Fissile Material Cut-off Treaty (FMCT)?
In December 1993, the UN General Assembly passed a resolution calling for negotiation of a treaty banning the unsafeguarded production of fissile material for nuclear weapons or other nuclear explosive devices. The Fissile Material Cutoff Treaty (FMCT) might extend verification measures to fissile materials production facilities, such as uranium enrichment plants and spent fuel reprocessing facilities for the production of plutonium. These facilities are not currently subject to international monitoring. The fissile materials are also used for non-weapon purposes such as a component of the fuel used in nuclear power plants
The resolution called for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to provide assistance in examining verification arrangements to ensure that conditions of the treaties are implemented. It is assumed that such a treaty will be conducive to the prevention of nuclear proliferation and promotion of nuclear disarmament.
Though US Congress is yet to ratify the treaty, Obama administration in USA is keen to mount a diplomatic offensive to push India and other countries to sign the CTBT and FMCT. India has refused to accept obligations of the treaties that hinder India’s “strategic programme”. India seems to be of the view that “Nuclear weapons are an integral part of the national security and will remain so pending the global elimination of all nuclear weapons on a universal, non-discriminatory basis”.
In view of the hostile neighbors, the country should ensure the country’s security before yielding to any pressures from US and other countries. India should realize that the Indo-US deal will only help US with billions of dollars worth Indian nuclear business. There is nothing much for India to gain from the deal.
The resolution called for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to provide assistance in examining verification arrangements to ensure that conditions of the treaties are implemented. It is assumed that such a treaty will be conducive to the prevention of nuclear proliferation and promotion of nuclear disarmament.
Though US Congress is yet to ratify the treaty, Obama administration in USA is keen to mount a diplomatic offensive to push India and other countries to sign the CTBT and FMCT. India has refused to accept obligations of the treaties that hinder India’s “strategic programme”. India seems to be of the view that “Nuclear weapons are an integral part of the national security and will remain so pending the global elimination of all nuclear weapons on a universal, non-discriminatory basis”.
In view of the hostile neighbors, the country should ensure the country’s security before yielding to any pressures from US and other countries. India should realize that the Indo-US deal will only help US with billions of dollars worth Indian nuclear business. There is nothing much for India to gain from the deal.
Friday, September 18, 2009
1998 test of a thermonuclear device by India at Pokhran had been a failure?
It is unfortunate that a DRDO scientist and a few BARC scientists have questioned the stated success of the thermonuclear device tested in 1998, that too after 10 years, and without much scientific evidence. Why wake up so late? As per Dr. Chidambaram, the device was “a two-stage device of advanced design, which had a fusion-boosted fission trigger as the first stage and a fusion secondary stage which was compressed by radiation implosion and ignited.”
One wonders what is exactly behind this controversy. Some people with the knowledge suspect that there is much more to it than the pure science. There are three possibilities: One can be to force India government to call off the self-committed moratorium on tests and not to sign CTBT; the second reason can be the possible competition for supremacy between BARC and DRDO, and the third may be some one is vying for the top post of DAE in the near future.
In this situation, the common man is taken for a ride, and the national secrets are being openly discussed. I am firmly of the opinion that the full disclosure should be avoided. The issue of credibility of India’s nuclear deterrent should be decided by the Prime Minister himself after due deliberations and hard talk to these scientists. National security should not be jeopardized at any cost.
One wonders what is exactly behind this controversy. Some people with the knowledge suspect that there is much more to it than the pure science. There are three possibilities: One can be to force India government to call off the self-committed moratorium on tests and not to sign CTBT; the second reason can be the possible competition for supremacy between BARC and DRDO, and the third may be some one is vying for the top post of DAE in the near future.
In this situation, the common man is taken for a ride, and the national secrets are being openly discussed. I am firmly of the opinion that the full disclosure should be avoided. The issue of credibility of India’s nuclear deterrent should be decided by the Prime Minister himself after due deliberations and hard talk to these scientists. National security should not be jeopardized at any cost.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Radiation around us
Radiation is a fact of life. People on this earth are being continuously bombarded by radiations from different sources, i.e., cosmic radiation from space, radiation emitted from the natural radioactive elements present in soil/rocks, like uranium and thorium and internal exposure from inhalation of natural radioactive gases, like radon preset in the air which we breathe, and traces of radioactive elements present in food and water we consume. Totally, these contribute about 79 % of the annual average global human exposure to radiation. Out of remaining 21%, 20% is contributed from medical exposures from X-rays and scans and only 1% from all other man-made sources, including nuclear power ((World Health Organization, WHO).
In India, major part (over 98%) of the average annual human exposure is from natural sources, about 1.93% from medical exposures and only about 0.37% from man-made sources. The large difference in medical exposures in WHO and Indian values, is due to enhanced medical care provided in developed countries as compared to India.
This information should be made available to the public so that risk from man-made sources are seen in proper perspective, and members of the public readily accept the numerous benefits from the application of radiation and radioisotopes.
In India, major part (over 98%) of the average annual human exposure is from natural sources, about 1.93% from medical exposures and only about 0.37% from man-made sources. The large difference in medical exposures in WHO and Indian values, is due to enhanced medical care provided in developed countries as compared to India.
This information should be made available to the public so that risk from man-made sources are seen in proper perspective, and members of the public readily accept the numerous benefits from the application of radiation and radioisotopes.
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Moratorium on nuclear tests
In this blog on Nuclear Issues, it was repeatedly posted that any funds provided by the west to Pakistan will only be used to produce more and more weapons, including nuclear to fight against India. Fight to contain terrorist groups inside Pakistan is only a pretext under which the Pakistan government is demanding funds from US and other sympathisers from Arab world.
The Indian Army Chief says “Pakistan’s efforts of increasing its nuclear strength were a matter of concern and Islamabad was going well beyond the degree of deterrence”. India should be more concerned than ever since there is a huge controversy over the claims of success of the 1998 Pokhran thermonuclear explosion, as claimed by the India government. The Indian nuclear fraternity is also divided over the issue raised by one of the ex-DRDO scientists. The Indian Atomic Energy Commission Chief however said that no more nuke tests are required to confirm the disputed Pokhran test results.
The issue is raised at a time when the US is pressuring India to sign CTBT and other pacts which will hinder progress in India’s nuclear weapon programs. Under the circumstances, the India government can very well refuse to sign any pacts which will put permanent moratorium on nuclear tests if required at a latter date. No deal is above the national security.
The Indian Army Chief says “Pakistan’s efforts of increasing its nuclear strength were a matter of concern and Islamabad was going well beyond the degree of deterrence”. India should be more concerned than ever since there is a huge controversy over the claims of success of the 1998 Pokhran thermonuclear explosion, as claimed by the India government. The Indian nuclear fraternity is also divided over the issue raised by one of the ex-DRDO scientists. The Indian Atomic Energy Commission Chief however said that no more nuke tests are required to confirm the disputed Pokhran test results.
The issue is raised at a time when the US is pressuring India to sign CTBT and other pacts which will hinder progress in India’s nuclear weapon programs. Under the circumstances, the India government can very well refuse to sign any pacts which will put permanent moratorium on nuclear tests if required at a latter date. No deal is above the national security.
Friday, August 14, 2009
Radon helps climate scientists
Radon (Rn-222) is a naturally occurring heavy radioactive gas formed by the decay of radium (Ra-226). It is emitted from the soil and disperses into the atmosphere. It´s considered dangerous to human health when allowed to accumulate in confined places like cellars and basements. The rates of radon emission vary based on the amount of rainfall or the uranium content of the local soil. The concentration of radon and its daughter products depends on the level of ventilation or the air movements in a given area.
The IAEA and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) have taken another step in their global initiative to improve atmospheric investigations that use radon. Radon in the air is useful for studying how pollutants move through the atmosphere and for testing the accuracy of the atmospheric dispersion models. A particularly important application is its use in estimating greenhouse gas emissions and to predict climate change and global warming. It is also measured at stations of the WMO´s Global Atmosphere Watch network.
Scientists and engineers, world-wide, are involved in measuring radon emission from land and also in measuring atmospheric radon. The IAEA has been working on an initiative aimed at standardizing radon measurement tools and practices to improve the quality of their data so that the data are comparable world-wide, and can be used for global projections on climate change.
(Based on IAEA News)
The IAEA and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) have taken another step in their global initiative to improve atmospheric investigations that use radon. Radon in the air is useful for studying how pollutants move through the atmosphere and for testing the accuracy of the atmospheric dispersion models. A particularly important application is its use in estimating greenhouse gas emissions and to predict climate change and global warming. It is also measured at stations of the WMO´s Global Atmosphere Watch network.
Scientists and engineers, world-wide, are involved in measuring radon emission from land and also in measuring atmospheric radon. The IAEA has been working on an initiative aimed at standardizing radon measurement tools and practices to improve the quality of their data so that the data are comparable world-wide, and can be used for global projections on climate change.
(Based on IAEA News)
Friday, July 10, 2009
Paleoradiology for unravel age-old mysteries
Nuclear analytical techniques and imaging systems such as neutron activation analysis, proton-induced X-ray emission, accelerator mass spectrometry, X-ray fluorescence spectrometry and computed tomography are widely used in many applications. "Paleoradiology" uses such nuclear technologies to study artefacts, skeletons, mummies and fossils. Many museums worldwide use the nuclear technologies to discover otherwise hidden details that piece together historic puzzles.
With the advent of more sophisticated CT technology and post-processing software, it is now possible to view mummies in coronal and sagittal planes as well as manipulate the raw data to create three-dimensional (3D) models of mummies and reconstruct their physical appearance. The approach is non-intrusive, leaving the mummy intact, untouched, and unharmed. The age-old mysteries can now be unravelled through the modern science of paleoradiology.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is helping interested countries apply such nuclear technologies for purposes of archaeological study and cultural preservation. Countries should take benefit of the Paleoradiology to improve investigative archaeology, which is still in early stage.
With the advent of more sophisticated CT technology and post-processing software, it is now possible to view mummies in coronal and sagittal planes as well as manipulate the raw data to create three-dimensional (3D) models of mummies and reconstruct their physical appearance. The approach is non-intrusive, leaving the mummy intact, untouched, and unharmed. The age-old mysteries can now be unravelled through the modern science of paleoradiology.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is helping interested countries apply such nuclear technologies for purposes of archaeological study and cultural preservation. Countries should take benefit of the Paleoradiology to improve investigative archaeology, which is still in early stage.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Pakistan nukes
The fallout of the political turmoil in Pakistan is going to be disadvantageous to India. The Pak President has already warned that there is a likelihood of nuclear weapons getting into the hands of Taliban or other terror groups mushrooming in Pakistan.
All said and done, Pak will always consider India as its enemy number 1 and use the funds obtained from western countries to produce more and more nuclear weapons to fight against India. Now the risk is augmented by the terror groups in Pakistan soil, such as Al Qaida and Taliban.
So, any kind of softening of Indian war preparedness against Pakistan will be disastrous for India. Remember Kargil. Nuclear deals apart, India should not sign any pacts with USA or other countries which are likely to curb Indian preparedness against any attacks from the neighbouring countries.
All efforts by, diplomatic or otherwise should be made by the world leaders to ensure safety and security of nuclear weapons in Pakistan.
All said and done, Pak will always consider India as its enemy number 1 and use the funds obtained from western countries to produce more and more nuclear weapons to fight against India. Now the risk is augmented by the terror groups in Pakistan soil, such as Al Qaida and Taliban.
So, any kind of softening of Indian war preparedness against Pakistan will be disastrous for India. Remember Kargil. Nuclear deals apart, India should not sign any pacts with USA or other countries which are likely to curb Indian preparedness against any attacks from the neighbouring countries.
All efforts by, diplomatic or otherwise should be made by the world leaders to ensure safety and security of nuclear weapons in Pakistan.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Plutonium – not as deadly as assumed
Plutonium (Pu), since its discovery in 1940, is extensively used in military and in reactors for power generation. It is artificially produced in the nuclear reactors on absorption of a neutron by the Uranium-238 (U-238) atom and subsequent beta decay of the U-239 to Neptunium (Np-239) which further undergoes beta decay to form Pu-239. It is an excellent fissile material (which undergoes fission reaction to release energy) and hence can be used in the manufacture of nuclear devices.
However, whenever plutonium is mentioned in news media, the name of the element is preceded by adjectives such as “deadly” or “most dangerous”, lethal, etc. This is clear a matter of misinformation to sensationalise the news. It is well known that many workers, years ago, have inhaled plutonium in measurable quantities and have not suffered any serious ill effects. Plutonium, like other elements in Periodic Table such as Radium and Thorium and Uranium is radioactive and decay by alpha radiation emission. These radioactive elements are present in trace amounts in soil, food, water and in our bodies. Thorium is used in gas mantles.
Since plutonium is an artificially produced element, the exposure of the public to plutonium is not possible except in situations of nuclear accident or any terrorist attack using so-called Dirty Bombs containing plutonium. Plutonium is not much of a chemically toxic element, but its radioactivity per unit gram is high and hence it is a radiotoxic element. In case of any intakes involving insoluble plutonium compounds, the fraction absorbed by the body fluids is almost negligible and in case of intakes involving soluble compounds of plutonium compounds only a small fraction, of the order of 0.0001, is absorbed by the body and over time gets deposited in bone and liver. Inhalation of air contaminated with plutonium particles needs to be prevented, and in case of an emergency situation, even a simple respirator of the type used in hospitals will provide considerable protection against the inhalation hazard.
However, whenever plutonium is mentioned in news media, the name of the element is preceded by adjectives such as “deadly” or “most dangerous”, lethal, etc. This is clear a matter of misinformation to sensationalise the news. It is well known that many workers, years ago, have inhaled plutonium in measurable quantities and have not suffered any serious ill effects. Plutonium, like other elements in Periodic Table such as Radium and Thorium and Uranium is radioactive and decay by alpha radiation emission. These radioactive elements are present in trace amounts in soil, food, water and in our bodies. Thorium is used in gas mantles.
Since plutonium is an artificially produced element, the exposure of the public to plutonium is not possible except in situations of nuclear accident or any terrorist attack using so-called Dirty Bombs containing plutonium. Plutonium is not much of a chemically toxic element, but its radioactivity per unit gram is high and hence it is a radiotoxic element. In case of any intakes involving insoluble plutonium compounds, the fraction absorbed by the body fluids is almost negligible and in case of intakes involving soluble compounds of plutonium compounds only a small fraction, of the order of 0.0001, is absorbed by the body and over time gets deposited in bone and liver. Inhalation of air contaminated with plutonium particles needs to be prevented, and in case of an emergency situation, even a simple respirator of the type used in hospitals will provide considerable protection against the inhalation hazard.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Nuclear Techniques can be used for Diagnostics and Control of Animal-Origin Diseases – Swine flu
United Nations official said that increased cooperation and vigilance on the part of both international and national health systems can help curb the continued threat of a major new influenza A (H1N1) pandemic - popularly known as swine flu. There is still a real threat of a pandemic, and the world health bodies and governments remain in full alert until this danger passes over.
With at least two new pathogens capable of harming humans emerging each year, 75 per cent originating in the animal kingdom, the prompt diagnosis of and response to disease in animals is vital both for disease control and for assessing practices that are most likely to result in risks to animal health and for people.
New nuclear and related techniques, are essential in ensuring appropriate diagnostics and control of animal-origin disease such as avian and H1N1 influenza pandemics, known as zoonotic diseases (source:IAEA News).
With at least two new pathogens capable of harming humans emerging each year, 75 per cent originating in the animal kingdom, the prompt diagnosis of and response to disease in animals is vital both for disease control and for assessing practices that are most likely to result in risks to animal health and for people.
New nuclear and related techniques, are essential in ensuring appropriate diagnostics and control of animal-origin disease such as avian and H1N1 influenza pandemics, known as zoonotic diseases (source:IAEA News).
Saturday, May 30, 2009
Indian Army chief is alarmed by Pakistan nukes
World-over, all Indians are alarmed by the above report appeared in the news papers. It is also reported that most of the nuclear war heads are aimed at Indian targets. How the new Indian government is going to react to such a situation is to be seen. Pakistan is concentrating in increasing its nuclear arsenal, augmenting the fissile material (plutonium) production and improvising the war-head delivery systems. It is a global threat. It looks China is providing all the support to Pakistan in these activities.
Knowing the past history, why the Americans are pumping-in billions of dollars to Pakistan in the name of fighting terrorism? Americans are playing a double game as usual. India better watch out. It is in India’s own interest that it doesn’t sign CTBT and the Fissile Material Cut Off Treaty (FMCT), which will prevent India from producing much needed fissile material.
Knowing the past history, why the Americans are pumping-in billions of dollars to Pakistan in the name of fighting terrorism? Americans are playing a double game as usual. India better watch out. It is in India’s own interest that it doesn’t sign CTBT and the Fissile Material Cut Off Treaty (FMCT), which will prevent India from producing much needed fissile material.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Feedback on DNA Article on “Centre sounds dirty bomb alert…” on 22/05/2009
It is indeed a good article published by Indian daily, DNA (Upfront) on May 22, 2009 entitled “Centre Sounds Dirty Bomb alert… . The article has given very relevant information with regard to the developments in preparedness for responding to “dirty bomb attacks”. The story is well written. It is long over-due that the bomb detection and other agencies responding to conventional bomb attacks are also equipped with radiation detection and monitoring equipments.
Recently, a national conference of Indian Association for radiation protection (IARP) was held at Jodhpur with the focal theme of “Management of Radiological & Nuclear Emergencies”. Various related issues were covered exhaustively in the conference. In the internet, there are blogs (http://radsafe.blogspot.com and http://praja2007.blogspot.com) dedicated for radiation protection and nuclear issues. Dirty bomb is also covered in these blogs.
I may just add that the definition “What is dirty bomb” (in the FAQs), given by the author in this article needs correction. The dirty bomb, as known today, doesn’t cause plume of radioactive particles. It is not a nuclear bomb. The probability of the radiation levels from a dirty bomb explosion scenario causing radiation sickness and cancer is very remote.
Recently, a national conference of Indian Association for radiation protection (IARP) was held at Jodhpur with the focal theme of “Management of Radiological & Nuclear Emergencies”. Various related issues were covered exhaustively in the conference. In the internet, there are blogs (http://radsafe.blogspot.com and http://praja2007.blogspot.com) dedicated for radiation protection and nuclear issues. Dirty bomb is also covered in these blogs.
I may just add that the definition “What is dirty bomb” (in the FAQs), given by the author in this article needs correction. The dirty bomb, as known today, doesn’t cause plume of radioactive particles. It is not a nuclear bomb. The probability of the radiation levels from a dirty bomb explosion scenario causing radiation sickness and cancer is very remote.
Pakistan is expanding its nuclear sites
United States and some other western country are pumping in billions of dollars to Pakistan to control terrorism. In fact, the money is reportedly is used to maintain camps for training terrorist outfits, to buy weapons and to increase nuclear weapon inventory.
It is also reported that Pakistanis have added one more plutonium separation plant to expand its’ nuclear weapon stockpile.
Even today, the biggest enemy as per Pakistan’s own admission is India and not Taliban. It is also reported that the US arms sent to Afghan forces have landed in the hands of Taliban. Very soon, the Taliban may take possession of the government machinery and get control over the nuclear arsenal. India may face the “Taliban-managed” nuclear terrorism originating from Pakistan. India should be ready to respond to this kind of terrorism.
It is also reported that Pakistanis have added one more plutonium separation plant to expand its’ nuclear weapon stockpile.
Even today, the biggest enemy as per Pakistan’s own admission is India and not Taliban. It is also reported that the US arms sent to Afghan forces have landed in the hands of Taliban. Very soon, the Taliban may take possession of the government machinery and get control over the nuclear arsenal. India may face the “Taliban-managed” nuclear terrorism originating from Pakistan. India should be ready to respond to this kind of terrorism.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
US helping Pakistan to expand its nuclear weapon program
United States and some other western country are pumping in billions of dollars to Pakistan in the name of fighting terrorism. In fact, Pakistan, as usual will spend the dollars to build arsenal, including nuclear weapons to fight against India. There are reports of Taliban getting closer to have control over the nuclear weapons. If this continues, the Pakistan under the influence of Taliban will be a threat to the world, including America. Pakistan can never be trusted.
The new US President continues to have policies which are against Indian interests. Obama administration is doing more harm to India than the earlier Republican administration headed by Bush. Why Indian government should play into US hands?
Now, with the Indian public support (the ruling UPA government wins the elections with very good margin) to the Indo-US civil nuclear deal, US may ultimately persuade India to sign CTBT and the Fissile Material Cut Off Treaty (FMCT), which will prevent India from producing much needed fissile material and US administration will have full control over the Indian Nuclear programs
The new US President continues to have policies which are against Indian interests. Obama administration is doing more harm to India than the earlier Republican administration headed by Bush. Why Indian government should play into US hands?
Now, with the Indian public support (the ruling UPA government wins the elections with very good margin) to the Indo-US civil nuclear deal, US may ultimately persuade India to sign CTBT and the Fissile Material Cut Off Treaty (FMCT), which will prevent India from producing much needed fissile material and US administration will have full control over the Indian Nuclear programs
Monday, May 11, 2009
Nuclear Security Initiatives in Southeast Asia Get Financial Support from Australia
Australia announced a contribution of €250 000 (A$450 000) to strengthen nuclear security in Southeast Asia through the IAEA´s Nuclear Security Fund initiative.
The Fund is a voluntary funding mechanism for Member States established to support the IAEA´s activities in nuclear security aimed at preventing, detecting and responding to nuclear terrorism. The grant reflects the high priority the Australian Government attaches to the work of the IAEA in this area and also to promoting capacity-building with regional partners, states a press release issued by Australia´s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Originally set up in 2002 for a period of three years, the IAEA´s Nuclear Security Fund was extended in September 2005 when the IAEA Board approved a new Nuclear Security Plan covering the period 2006-2009. Implementation of this plan has been almost wholly dependent on the donation of extra-budgetary contributions by Member States and others (IAEA News). This is a good initiatve which should be supported by all the Member States. Look at Pakistan. Are the nuclear weapons are in safe hands?
Nuclear terrorism should be stopped at all costs.
The Fund is a voluntary funding mechanism for Member States established to support the IAEA´s activities in nuclear security aimed at preventing, detecting and responding to nuclear terrorism. The grant reflects the high priority the Australian Government attaches to the work of the IAEA in this area and also to promoting capacity-building with regional partners, states a press release issued by Australia´s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
Originally set up in 2002 for a period of three years, the IAEA´s Nuclear Security Fund was extended in September 2005 when the IAEA Board approved a new Nuclear Security Plan covering the period 2006-2009. Implementation of this plan has been almost wholly dependent on the donation of extra-budgetary contributions by Member States and others (IAEA News). This is a good initiatve which should be supported by all the Member States. Look at Pakistan. Are the nuclear weapons are in safe hands?
Nuclear terrorism should be stopped at all costs.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
IAEA Director General Candidates Announced
IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei´s term of office expires on 30 November 2009. He has stated that he is not available for a fourth term of office. The IAEA´s 146 Member States were advised this week that five candidates have been nominated for Director General of the Agency. In a letter dated 28 April 2008, IAEA Board Chair Taous Feroukhi said she had received official nominations from the governments of Belgium, Japan, Slovenia, South Africa and Spain.
The five nominated candidates are:
Mr. Yukiya Amano of Japan;
Mr. Luis Echávarri of Spain;
Mr. Abdul Samad Minty of South Africa;
Mr. Ernest Petrič of Slovenia; and
Mr. Jean-Pol Poncelet of Belgium.
The five candidates were nominated by their respective governments in line with a process approved by the Board in October 2008. IAEA Board Chairperson Ms. Feroukhi is soon to initiate informal consultations on the nominations received (IAEA News).
The five nominated candidates are:
Mr. Yukiya Amano of Japan;
Mr. Luis Echávarri of Spain;
Mr. Abdul Samad Minty of South Africa;
Mr. Ernest Petrič of Slovenia; and
Mr. Jean-Pol Poncelet of Belgium.
The five candidates were nominated by their respective governments in line with a process approved by the Board in October 2008. IAEA Board Chairperson Ms. Feroukhi is soon to initiate informal consultations on the nominations received (IAEA News).
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Developing Strategies for Cancer Care
One size doesn’t fit all in cancer diagnosis and treatment. Machines that are heralded as breakthroughs in technological wizardry in developed countries may not be equally beneficial to patients in low and middle income states.
This is why more than 400 cancer therapy specialists from 100 countries are meeting in Vienna during 27-29 April at an IAEA event to discuss modern techniques in radiation treatment and how to apply them in developing countries. Major national and international organizations in the field of radiation oncology are also taking part in the conference. This event will benefit developing countries by putting things into perspective.
Many of the advances in radiation oncology that are unveiled at international forums every year are not only expensive but untried and sometimes even experimental. It’s more crucial for developing countries to understand which of the current treatments and approaches can be best applied considering the challenges they face, like limited human and financial resources. The meeting is expected to promote information sharing between low, middle and high income countries, so that cancer care can be improved in the long term (IAEA News).
This is why more than 400 cancer therapy specialists from 100 countries are meeting in Vienna during 27-29 April at an IAEA event to discuss modern techniques in radiation treatment and how to apply them in developing countries. Major national and international organizations in the field of radiation oncology are also taking part in the conference. This event will benefit developing countries by putting things into perspective.
Many of the advances in radiation oncology that are unveiled at international forums every year are not only expensive but untried and sometimes even experimental. It’s more crucial for developing countries to understand which of the current treatments and approaches can be best applied considering the challenges they face, like limited human and financial resources. The meeting is expected to promote information sharing between low, middle and high income countries, so that cancer care can be improved in the long term (IAEA News).
Friday, April 10, 2009
Nuclear knowledge is available online - free
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) is making its International Nuclear Information System (INIS) available for free to Internet users around the world. Established in 1970, the INIS processes most of the world’s scientific and technical literature on a wide range of subjects from nuclear engineering, safeguards and non-proliferation to applications in agriculture and health. It is the world’s leading database on the peaceful uses of nuclear science and technology.
The information provided in INIS comes from reliable sources like the national atomic energy authorities in Member States. As such, it can be trusted by the end user.
Following a pilot test project, free, open and unrestricted access to the INIS Online Database is now available from the INIS homepage to all internet users worldwide. No registration is required.
The information provided in INIS comes from reliable sources like the national atomic energy authorities in Member States. As such, it can be trusted by the end user.
Following a pilot test project, free, open and unrestricted access to the INIS Online Database is now available from the INIS homepage to all internet users worldwide. No registration is required.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
New ICRP Draft Report for consultation
Preventing Accidental Exposures from New External Beam Radiation Therapy Technologies - New ICRP Draft Report
The work of the Task Group formed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) to address “Preventing Accidental Exposures from New External Beam Radiation Therapy Technologies” is nearing completion. This draft has been posted in the ICRP site for public consultation. Because of the nature of the report, the Commission has decided on this occasion to use an accelerated consultation and production process. Therefore, the consultation period will be for 2 months only, instead of the usual 3 months. The comments must be entered on the ICRP’s consultation page no later than Friday 24 April, 2009 in order for the ICRP to be able to take them into account in the final report.
The work of the Task Group formed by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) to address “Preventing Accidental Exposures from New External Beam Radiation Therapy Technologies” is nearing completion. This draft has been posted in the ICRP site for public consultation. Because of the nature of the report, the Commission has decided on this occasion to use an accelerated consultation and production process. Therefore, the consultation period will be for 2 months only, instead of the usual 3 months. The comments must be entered on the ICRP’s consultation page no later than Friday 24 April, 2009 in order for the ICRP to be able to take them into account in the final report.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
India Safeguards Agreement Signed at Vienna (2 February, 2009)
An Agreement between the Government of India and the IAEA for the Application of Safeguards to Civilian Nuclear Facilities was signed today in Vienna by IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei and Ambassador Saurabh Kumar of India.
The safeguards agreement, which is the result of several rounds of consultations conducted between India and the IAEA since November 2007, was approved by the IAEA Board of Governors in August 2008. The agreement will enter into force on the date the IAEA receives from India written notification that its statutory and/or constitutional requirements for entry into force have been met.
The IAEA currently applies safeguards to six nuclear reactors in India under safeguards agreements concluded between 1971 and 1994. In the future, additional reactors are expected to be under IAEA safeguards under the newly-signed agreement (Source: IAEA News).
The safeguards agreement, which is the result of several rounds of consultations conducted between India and the IAEA since November 2007, was approved by the IAEA Board of Governors in August 2008. The agreement will enter into force on the date the IAEA receives from India written notification that its statutory and/or constitutional requirements for entry into force have been met.
The IAEA currently applies safeguards to six nuclear reactors in India under safeguards agreements concluded between 1971 and 1994. In the future, additional reactors are expected to be under IAEA safeguards under the newly-signed agreement (Source: IAEA News).
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Pakistan’s nukes are threat to the world
One of the biggest challenges to the Barack Obama’s Administration is to ensure safety of the Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal in case of a possible collapse of Pakistan. Pakistan is the hub for the fundamentalist violence and camps for training in terrorist activities. The nuclear weapons or “dirty bombs” (basically a radioactivity dispersal device) may even land in the hands of fundamentalists or Jihadis. Under the present scenario of uncertain political leadership in Pakistan, world community should be concerned about possible misadventure from Pakistan’ army chief. The control of nuclear weapons with the army is not strategically desirable for India.
Tough-line diplomacy by India and other world leaders can only make Pakistan leaders to see reason and ensure that the nuclear weapons and radioactive materials are in safe custody of the civilian government and would not fall into the wrong hands.
Tough-line diplomacy by India and other world leaders can only make Pakistan leaders to see reason and ensure that the nuclear weapons and radioactive materials are in safe custody of the civilian government and would not fall into the wrong hands.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Indian nuclear deals for whose gain?
The Bush administration helped the American companies to sell their nuclear reactors and other nuclear-related components to India. Similar story goes with France, Russia and a few more countries. Others thus get the business at whose cost? Of course, at the cost of India. India may get a few more nuclear power reactors, which may not increase its percentage nuclear contribution after 8 to 10 years, when the demand also would have increased to a great extent. But, India will be giving over US$100 billion business to these countries! These countries were without much nuclear business for a long time.
This may result ultimately in stagnation of India’s own R & D activities in nuclear fuel cycle operations. NEED is the mother of invention. When there is no need, why spend time & money on developmental activities. That means commercialization of India’s “hard-earned” thorium fuel cycle operations will be a few decades away from now.
India should also work seriously to commercialize other non-conventional energy sources, like wind, solar, and geo-thermal, so that additional future requirements will be met by the mix of energy sources other than fast-depleting fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas.
This may result ultimately in stagnation of India’s own R & D activities in nuclear fuel cycle operations. NEED is the mother of invention. When there is no need, why spend time & money on developmental activities. That means commercialization of India’s “hard-earned” thorium fuel cycle operations will be a few decades away from now.
India should also work seriously to commercialize other non-conventional energy sources, like wind, solar, and geo-thermal, so that additional future requirements will be met by the mix of energy sources other than fast-depleting fossil fuels such as coal, oil and gas.
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Nuclear Fuel Bank Initiative by IAEA Receives Crucial EU Support
The European Union (EU) recently pledged Euro 25 million ($32 million) towards a nuclear fuel bank proposal to be placed under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)’s control. The EU pledge, along with those by Norway, the United Arab Emirates and the USA shows growing momentum for a new more equitable framework for nuclear energy, says IAEA Director General. The pledge is a boost for the initiative originally launched by the Nuclear Threat Initiative (NTI) in 2006.
Enriched uranium provides the fuel for many of the world´s nuclear power reactors, and the enrichment process is a vital process in a multi-step nuclear fuel cycle. The enrichment of uranium, while a necessary step in the creation of the fuel that power many of the world´s civilian nuclear reactors, can also be employed for use in nuclear weapons.
An IAEA fuel bank would guarantee supply of nuclear fuel and reactor services to bona fide States and protect them from politically motivated disruption of supply while at the same time minimizing the risk of nuclear proliferation through dissemination of the enrichment technologies. This initiative will provide necessary support for countries like India in case of withdrawal of nuclear cooperation by the partners in the recently signed nuclear deals, for some reason or the other.
Enriched uranium provides the fuel for many of the world´s nuclear power reactors, and the enrichment process is a vital process in a multi-step nuclear fuel cycle. The enrichment of uranium, while a necessary step in the creation of the fuel that power many of the world´s civilian nuclear reactors, can also be employed for use in nuclear weapons.
An IAEA fuel bank would guarantee supply of nuclear fuel and reactor services to bona fide States and protect them from politically motivated disruption of supply while at the same time minimizing the risk of nuclear proliferation through dissemination of the enrichment technologies. This initiative will provide necessary support for countries like India in case of withdrawal of nuclear cooperation by the partners in the recently signed nuclear deals, for some reason or the other.
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