Heavy Water Application in Power Generation
'Heavy water' refers to water that contains a higher proportion of deuterium (a heavier isotope of hydrogen) than normal water. Its chemical formula is D2O, where D represents deuterium.
Role of Heavy Water
Heavy water is primarily used in nuclear power generation plants.
- Neutron Moderator: Heavy water is an excellent neutron moderator. In nuclear reactors, it slows down fast neutrons produced during nuclear fission, making them more likely to cause further fission. This process is essential for sustaining the chain reaction in certain reactor designs, such as CANDU reactors.
- Coolant: It can also serve as a coolant to remove heat from the reactor core.
Unlike hydro-electric power plants (which use standard water flow), the fertilizer industry, or the pharmaceutical industry, the specific properties of heavy water make it crucial for the operation of specific types of nuclear reactors.
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