MTE4235 · Nuclear energy: Science, technology and society

Overview

Led by a diverse team of academics specialising in engineering, science and social sciences, you will gain a comprehensive knowledge of nuclear energy. The unit will provide an overview of the history of nuclear power generation and its current contribution to the energy mix around the world. You will learn about the development of nuclear energy and its applications over time. You will explore the concept of the nuclear renaissance, which refers to the renewed interest in nuclear power generation due to the challenges posed by climate change. To understand the principles of nuclear power generation, you will delve into the processes of fission and fusion and how energy is converted during these reactions. You will also learn about the resulting radioactivity, including its characteristics and potential hazards. The unit will cover the main designs of nuclear reactors, highlighting their differences and respective advantages. Furthermore, you will explore the various methods employed to extract heat from nuclear reactions and convert it into electricity. You will gain insight into the materials challenges associated with operating in a nuclear environment, including considerations of radiation effects and material degradation. Engaging in discussions with experts, you will explore the social perception and licencing aspects of nuclear energy. This will involve understanding public opinion, societal concerns, and the regulatory framework surrounding nuclear power. A crucial aspect covered in this unit concerns nuclear waste. You will learn about current and future solutions for managing different levels of nuclear waste. This includes exploring strategies for identifying suitable geological disposal ensuring long-term containment, and minimising environmental impact. Throughout the unit, you will have the opportunity to interact with a range of experts from different fields, gaining a holistic understanding of nuclear energy, By the end, you will be equipped with knowledge about nuclear power generation, its challenges, and potential solutions, as well as the societal and environmental implications associated with this form of energy.

Areas of study: Minor: Renewable energy engineering

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Continuous assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Describe nuclear energy and its perceived role in CO2 reduction around the world from a historical and contemporary perspective.
2. Describe the concept of social licence for nuclear.
3. Describe nuclear fission and fusion reaction including radioactive decay.
4. Describe the role of fluid mechanics, materials and structural integrity for fission and fusion reactors.
5. Describe challenges and risk mitigating strategies for nuclear waste and geological disposals.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester, typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.