The Ongoing Challenge of Chernobyl: What Lies Beneath?

🔥35 years after the Chernobyl disaster, neutron spikes have been detected in an inaccessible basement room at the plant.

💧Water from rain and evaporation is interacting with the nuclear fuel, causing changes in neutron emission.

💣The Chernobyl sarcophagus was meant to be a temporary solution, and the new safe confinement was built to contain and study the radioactive ruins.

🔒Scientists expected the neutron spikes due to the drying of the over-moistened fuel, and current levels do not pose a threat of a self-sustained chain reaction.

👩‍🔬Understanding the nuclear physics behind the neutron spikes is crucial in evaluating the ongoing situation at Chernobyl.

Are the neutron spikes a sign of a second disaster at Chernobyl?

—No, the neutron spikes are expected and are a result of the drying of the over-moistened fuel. They do not pose a threat of a self-sustained chain reaction.

Is the new safe confinement effective in containing the radioactive ruins?

—Yes, the new safe confinement is designed to keep radiation and radioactive dust from escaping into the environment. It also allows scientists to study the ruins and jumpstart the cleanup process.

What caused the neutron spikes at Chernobyl?

—The neutron spikes are believed to be caused by changes in the interaction between water, which had entered the reactor, and the nuclear fuel as it dries and the fuel becomes porous.

Do the neutron spikes pose a danger to the surrounding area?

—According to nuclear scientists, the current levels of neutron spikes do not pose a threat. Safety protocols are in place to prevent a chain reaction of fission, and the situation is being closely monitored.

How long will the new safe confinement last?

—The new safe confinement is designed to contain the ruins for at least the next 100 years. Its watertight construction helps prevent water from entering and moderating neutron emission.

00:01The Chernobyl disaster, the worst nuclear disaster in history, occurred 35 years ago.

02:11The new safe confinement, a modern tomb designed to contain and study the radioactive ruins, was constructed to replace the temporary sarcophagus.

09:27Neutron spikes have been detected in an inaccessible basement room at Chernobyl, causing concern.

10:10The neutron spikes are expected and are a result of the drying of the over-moistened fuel.

10:16The new safe confinement is effective in containing the radioactive ruins and allows for study and cleanup.