Significance of plutonium for nuclear power and opposition to its use

The annual production of plutonium in the individual reactor types is shown and the annual and cumulative production in capitalist countries between 1975 and 2000 is estimated. The use is discussed of plutonium as FBR type reactor fuel and plutonium recycle in light-water reactors is economically justified. The basic hygiene characteristics of Pu are indicated and Pu health risks are compared with those of other toxic substances. The question is discussed of possible contamination with Pu in normal or emergency operation of nuclear facilities, of very high-active Pu-containing waste processing and of the misuse of plutonium by terrorists. It is shown that although plutonium cannot be considered to be harmless, thirty years of experiences have proved that it does not pose a major risk provided safety regulations are observed. (J.P.)