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IAEA looks at nuclear techniques for crop resilience
The International Atomic Energy Agency has launched a five-year coordinated research project (CRP) to strengthen plant health preparedness using nuclear and related technologies.
Wheat blast, potato late blight, potato bacterial wilt, and cassava witches broom disease can spread quickly across large areas of land, leading to severe yield losses in key crops for food security. Global trade and climate change have increased the likelihood of rapid, transboundary spread.
J. C. McGuire, W. F. Brehm
Nuclear Technology | Volume 48 | Number 2 | April 1980 | Pages 101-109
Technical Paper | Reactor | doi.org/10.13182/NT80-A32456
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Prototype radionuclide traps were tested in sodium loops containing irradiated sources (Source Term Control Loops 2 and 3) at 604 and 538°C (1120 and 1000°F). Prototype traps were 70 to 87% efficient in removing 54Mn from the sodium, and also effective for 60Co. Extensive screening tests showed that pure nickel is the most effective getter material, working best above 450°C (842°F) with increasing effectiveness at higher temperatures. Of the several possible trap sites considered for reactor use, a location within the top of the fuel assembly was chosen as the most convenient and effective. This position would facilitate trap handling by making trap insertion and removal an implicit part of the normal fuel handling procedure. A cost/benefit analysis shows that the radionuclide trap will be economically attractive. One radionuclide trap has completed a year of testing in an Experimental Breeder Reactor II driver fuel subassembly with good results, and a second trap is being tested in the same reactor.