( October 21, 2004 )

Oklo Fossil Reactors

In 1972 in Oklo, Gabon, a uranium mine was being operated. But when was taken to be enriched, it was discovered that the U-235 to U-238 ratio was very odd. A careful examination of the mine turned up fossil evidence of several naturally occuring nuclear fission reactors. At least one of them was a fully functional breeder reactor: from the fissioning U-235 a neutron converts U-238 to U-239 which beta decays to Pu-239, and then that alpha decays to a new U-235. There is not much left to these reactors due to the mining, but there are a few remain, and number fifteen is typically described as “well preserved.” Here are a one page summary of the Oklo reactors and a more detailed discussion of Oklo. These natural reactors are not well known to the public, but well studied for insights into long term nuclear waste storage.

Filled under engines by Mr. Pogonatus

1 Comment to “Oklo Fossil Reactors” »

  1. Mr. Xradiographer says:

    Previously mentioned here, as well.

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