Iran’s Response to UN Censure: Launch of Advanced Centrifuges and Uranium Enrichment Expansion

Iran’s Response to UN Censure: Launch of Advanced Centrifuges and Uranium Enrichment Expansion

Sub :Sci

Sec: Nuclear sector

Why in News

• Iran recently announced the launch of “new and advanced” centrifuges, following a censure by the UN nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The resolution, backed by several Western nations, criticized Iran for its lack of cooperation regarding its nuclear activities. This move by Iran is seen as a direct response to ongoing international scrutiny over its nuclear program.

Background:

• The censure resolution was initiated by Britain, France, Germany, and the United States. It was passed by the IAEA’s 35-member board, with 19 votes in favour.
• In response to the censure, the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) ordered the deployment of a significant series of advanced centrifuges.
• Western nations, fear that Iran’s enrichment activities could be aimed at developing nuclear weapons, a claim that Iran has consistently denied.

What is a Centrifuge?

A centrifuge is a device used to separate substances based on their densities by spinning them at high speeds. In the context of nuclear technology, centrifuges are specifically designed to enrich uranium, which is a key process in producing nuclear fuel or weapons-grade material.

How Does a Centrifuge Work in Uranium Enrichment?

• Centrifuges used for uranium enrichment operate by separating different isotopes of uranium, particularly to increase the concentration of the fissile isotope Uranium-235 (U-235). Here’s a breakdown of the process:
• Uranium Hexafluoride (UF): Natural uranium is first converted into a gaseous form known as uranium hexafluoride. This gas is then fed into a series of centrifuges for enrichment.
• High-Speed Spinning: The centrifuge spins the UF gas at extremely high speeds, creating a strong centrifugal force.
• The heavier Uranium-238 (U-238)isotopes, which are more abundant in natural uranium, are pushed towards the outer edges of the spinning cylinder due to their higher mass.
• Separation of Isotopes: The lighter Uranium-235 (U-235)isotopes, which are crucial for nuclear reactions, tend to remain closer to the centre.
• This slight difference in distribution allows the centrifuge to separate the U-235 from the heavier U-238.
• The process is repeated in a series of centrifuges, known as a cascade, to gradually increase the concentration of U-235.
• Low-enriched uranium (LEU) is used for nuclear reactors, while high-enriched uranium (HEU) is suitable for weapons.

What is U-235?

• Uranium-235 (U-235)is a naturally occurring isotope of uranium, known for its ability to sustain a nuclear chain reaction.
• Fissile Material: U-235 is a fissile isotope, meaning it can easily split when struck by a neutron, releasing a large amount of energy in the form of heat.
• U-235 makes up only about 7%of natural uranium, with the rest being primarily U-238.
• U-235’s ability to undergo fission makes it crucial for both civilian and military nuclear applications, including nuclear reactors and atomic bombs.
• Role in a Nuclear Chain Reaction: When a neutron strikes a U-235 nucleus, it can cause the nucleus to split into smaller fragments, releasing energy, more neutrons, and radiation.
• The released neutrons can then strike other U-235 atoms, causing a chain reaction, which is the basis for nuclear energy production and the explosive power of nuclear weapons.

Enrichment Levels:

• Natural Uranium: Contains only 0.7% U-235, not sufficient for most nuclear reactors or weapons.
• Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU): Contains 3-5% U-235, used for civilian nuclear reactors.
• Highly Enriched Uranium (HEU): Contains over 20% U-235, with weapons-grade uranium typically being enriched to 85% or higher.

About International Atomic Energy Agency:

• Widely known as the world’s “Atoms for Peace and Development” organization within the United Nations family, the IAEA is the international centre for cooperation in the nuclear field.
• The IAEA was created in 1957 in response to the deep fears and expectations generated by the discoveries and diverse uses of nuclear technology.
• Headquarter: Vienna, Austria.
• Objective: The Agency works with its Member States and multiple partners worldwide to promote safe, secure and peaceful use of nuclear technologies.
• In 2005, it was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for their work for a safe and peaceful world.
• Functions: It is an independent international organization that reports annually to the United Nation General Assembly.
• When necessary, the IAEA also reports to the UN Security Council in regards to instances of members’ non-compliance with safeguards and security obligations.