Korean proliferation risk

If current reprocessing plans by BNFL and other reprocessing facilities are realised, it is likely that by the end of the century there will be a world surplus of between 100 and 200 tonnes of separated plutonium from civilian spent fuel. Although plutonium produced by civilian power reactors has a different mix of isotopes from so-called weapons-grade plutonium, it can be used in weapons. This 'civil' surplus will be in addition to the 200 tonnes of plutonium expected to be recovered from dismantled warheads in the US and Russia. This increase in world stocks of separated plutonium will impose significant new burdens on nuclear safeguards and protection systems. Among the countries with which BNFL hopes to trade is South Korea, despite the fact that the Korean peninsula is identified as a region of major proliferation concern. The risks and implications are considered. (author)