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Quantum Computers Take a Leap Toward Accurate Nuclear Simulations

A newly developed framework for quantifying uncertainties enhances the predictive power of analog quantum simulations. Simulating quantum many-body systems is a major objective in nuclear and high-energy physics. These systems involve large numbers of interacting particles governed by the laws of

Study uncovers origin of the large neutron-capture cross section in ⁸⁸Zr using new methodology

Studies that explore how the denser sections of atoms, known as atomic nuclei, interact with neutrons (i.e., particles with no electric charge) can have valuable implications both for the understanding of these atoms’ underlying physics and for the development of nuclear energy solutions. A process that is central to these interactions is neutron capture, which entails the absorption of a neutron by a nucleus, followed by the emission of gamma-rays.

Researchers at Los Alamos National Laboratory recently carried out a study aimed at better understanding the origin of the exceptional neutron capture capabilities of the zirconium-88 (88 Zr), using a new experimental methodology. Their findings, published in Physical Review Letters, offer valuable insight that could help to improve existing nuclear and astrophysical models.

“The probability (per unit area) of a nucleus capturing a neutron at a given kinetic energy is called neutron-capture cross section,” Thanos Stamatopoulos, first author of the paper, told Phys.org. “The probability across several kinetic energies from 0.5 eV up to infinity is called resonance integral. Typically, in nature, when the cross section for neutrons with a kinetic energy of 25 meV (thermal cross section) is very large, the resonance integral is small.”

Biomimetic adsorbent efficiently extracts uranium from seawater

The oceans hold an enormous amount of very diluted uranium that could potentially serve as a sustainable fuel source for nuclear power. But how can uranium be extracted quickly and efficiently from seawater?

Balancing high selectivity for ions with rapid transport of those ions has long been a major challenge in obtaining uranium from the sea. Now a groundbreaking study suggests a solution.

A research team led by Prof. Wen Liping from the Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry of the Chinese Academy of Sciences has developed a biomimetic adsorbent that can attract and hold uranium ions. The inspiration for this adsorbent is the natural porous structure of the spiky, globular fruit of the Chinese sweetgum tree, Liquidambar formosana. The team’s findings were recently published in Matter.

Scientists Just Built a Battery That Never Needs Charging

Imagine never charging your phone again or having a pacemaker that lasts a lifetime. Scientists are developing tiny nuclear batteries powered by radiocarbon, a safe and abundant by-product of nuclear plants.

Unlike lithium-ion batteries, which degrade over time and harm the environment, these new designs use beta radiation to trigger an electron avalanche and generate electricity. The team’s latest prototype vastly improved efficiency, and though challenges remain, the technology could one day make nuclear power as accessible as your pocket device.

The Problem with Current Batteries.

A safe nuclear battery that could last a lifetime

Sometimes cell phones die sooner than expected or electric vehicles don’t have enough charge to reach their destination. The rechargeable lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries in these and other devices typically last hours or days between charging. However, with repeated use, batteries degrade and need to be recharged more frequently.

US-built fusion reactor structure delivered for 60-ft-tall ITER magnet

Fusion is inching closer to reality with continuous development in this field as the United States Domestic Agency for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) recently completed the delivery of critical components for the support structure of central solenoid.

Described as an exoskeleton, or a cage, the support structure surrounds the central solenoid, which is a 60-foot-tall superconducting magnet at the heart of the ITER fusion machine.

US firms plan nuclear-powered spacecraft for deep space exploration

The goal of enabling extended deep-space exploration is driving NASA, space agencies, and private players to explore nuclear power solutions.

Recently, two Southern California-based startups, Exlabs and Antares Nuclear, announced a partnership to advance deep-space missions with nuclear-powered spacecraft.

SpaceNews reported that the Exlabs’ Science Exploration and Resource Vehicle (SERV) spacecraft will be equipped with Antares microreactors.