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The discovery and study of the nuclear reactor in Oklo

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Abstract

The work leading to the discovery of naturally sustained chain reactions at Oklo (Gabonnaise Republic) is described. Conditions for this occurrence are discussed. Information derived from analytical studies in detailed, particularly age of the deposit, duration of the chain sustained reactions, total power evolved. Typical values are respectively 2 109 years, 106 years, one hundred billion kWh. Migration of fission products and transuranian elements can be studied. Rare earths stay mostly with uranium. No indication of plutonium migration is found. Finally operation of the reactor are discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Départment de Recherche et Analyse, Centre d'Etudes Nucléaires de Saclay, B. P. No. 2, 91190, Gif-sur-Yvette, France

    E. Roth (Chef)

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  1. E. Roth
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Roth, E. The discovery and study of the nuclear reactor in Oklo. J. Radioanal. Chem. 37, 65–78 (1977). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02520518

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02520518

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