MOX Fuel
Mixed Oxide Fuel
Mixed oxide fuel blending plutonium oxide (PuO2) with depleted or natural uranium oxide (UO2). Recycles plutonium from spent fuel to extend fuel resources.
MOX typically contains 5-7% PuO2, with Pu isotopic mix from reprocessing (e.g., 60-70% Pu-239). Used in LWRs with modified assemblies; burnup ~40-50 GWd/t. France's Melox plant produces ~200 t/year for 20+ reactors. Reduces high-level waste volume by 85% vs. once-through cycle.
Why it matters now
MOX enables Pu recycling as US restarts reprocessing discussions for advanced reactors in 2025-2026. Supports SMR fuel strategies amid uranium supply constraints.