plutonium

The Trump administration is moving forward with a plan to supply plutonium from dismantled Cold War-era nuclear warheads to companies that would convert the material into fuel for nuclear power plants. The proposal has generated debate and some unease, with critics questioning the safety and wisdom of handing highly dangerous weapons-grade material to commercial interests.

Scientists gathered for additional talks covering a range of nuclear topics, including plutonium production in fast reactors, the effects of nuclear war on water cycles, measurements at nuclear weapon test sites with remote detection of tests, and sustainability in relation to nuclear non-proliferation. The discussions highlight ongoing scientific and policy concerns around both civilian nuclear technology and weapons monitoring.