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Reducing the critical mass of Pu-239

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The critical mass of Pu-239 sphere-shaped reflector of neutrons (U-238) is 10 Kg.Esto would be like a golf ball, because the density of plutonium.

But is it possible to lower the critical mass of plutonium? Can you get a chain reaction with less Pu-239?

At least I think so, but even I'm sure.

first thing is to add a moderator to Pu-239. In this case Berilio.Si create a plutonium-beryllium alloy, beryllium reduce the speed of thermal neutrons, making possible the fission reaction cadena.Ademas, the Pu-239 decays to U-235 (fissile) via a particle alpha. This, on impact will create a new beryllium neutron and carbon, which also serves as moderator.

Well, we already have an alloy through which we have reduced the critical mass.

But if we add 0.01 mg of Cf-252 or Cm-248, and 1 mg of Po-210, more easily reach critical mass, but our fuel will have an average life I would put a maximum of 3 years.

But if instead of using pure Pu-239, we use U-238 is rich in Pu-239 (DU massively bombarded with neutrons, 60% of Enrichment with Pu-239), U-238 is converted to Pu-go 239.

When this chain reaction U-238 could clogging.

But before introducing this bombustible hope a nuclear bomb about 1.5 years, much of the U-238 will have become Pu-239.

Once we have done all this mass, it is best to immerse it in liquid hydrogen to form metal hydrides also make moderator.

Now we just have to this area EFG metal hydrides, more compact form possible depleted uranium to make neutron reflector. We already have our fuel, which I doubt serve for something (including an atomic bomb.)

SUMMARY:

-4 kg of Pu-239 or 6 kilos of pure U-238 Pu-239 enriched to 60%. Be
-500 grams.
-0.01 mg of Cf-252 or Cm-248
-Po-210 1mg

liquid-hydrogen-depleted uranium (just a little)

Melt 1-sphere-shaped or Pu-239 Uranium enriched with the beryllium, the Cf / Cm and Po-210 in an inert atmosphere at 1300 ° C. The dough should be as homogenous as possible so that all items can interact properly. Beryllium may be worth it in powder form.

2-Once chilled, let stand for two minutes submerged in liquid hydrogen, allowing it to penetrate well into the metal.

3-Surrounding the metal sphere by a layer minimum 1 mm thick pure U-238 (DU). Recommended 3 mm thick.
Remember that in many nuclear devices that uranium is already in the warhead, making it unnecessary to add the fuel itself.

4-Allow the fuel for at least 6 months, if what you have used is uranium enrichment.

Incase of using pure plutonium, the maximum life of the fuel is 5 years. Enriched Uranium is 8 years.

Now that you know, do not do, although it goes without saying that this does NOT work and you have no access to plutonium, like me.

Salu2!