Armin Qasimi

English 0126
February 10, 2024

The Process of Uranium’s Enrichment

The process of enriching uranium-235 involves several intricate

steps. The first stage in the enrichment of uranium-235 is to get the
feedstock ready. To create uranium hexafluoride (UF6), mined
uranium is subjected to conversion and milling procedures. Then the
enrichment process starts, and we have two main ways to do it: the gas
diffusion method and the gas centrifuge method. By introducing UF6
gas into revolving centrifuges, the gas centrifuge process separates
uranium isotopes according to their mass. On the other hand, the gas
diffusion approach divides isotopes based on their rates of diffusion by
using porous barriers. Enriched uranium is carefully segregated from
depleted uranium after enrichment reaches the required level. After
that, this separation, which is frequently accomplished by filtration
systems or cascades, represents an important change in appearance.
Strict quality control procedures are used during this complex process,
applying methods such as gamma-ray spectroscopy and mass
spectrometry. Finally, extreme care is taken in managing byproducts of
depleted uranium to minimize any possible risks to the environment or
public-health.