Everyday Uses of Nuclear Technology You May Not Know About
Nuclear technology is used to provide clean, reliable energy. It’s probably best known for reducing carbon emissions, which is an important factor for companies and countries going carbon neutral. But it also has a variety of uses in medicine, agriculture, space exploration, and industry. With new technological advances, we can also increasingly use it in everyday applications.
5 Uses of Nuclear Tech Other Than Power Plants
When you think of nuclear technology, generating nuclear energy in a power plant may come to mind. Although electricity production is perhaps the most recognizable application of nuclear tech, it isn’t the only one. Let’s explore some of the technology’s lesser known yet growing uses.
Transportation
Nuclear power is currently used in small nuclear reactors in maritime vessels that need to be at sea for a long time, such as submarines or aircraft carriers. Nuclear energy production results in fewer emissions of greenhouse gasses, which means it’s a great potential source of power for electric vehicles (EVs). Nuclear-powered EVs would be able to travel farther on faster and longer-lasting charges. Nuclear power also helps produce hydrogen, which could be used in fuel cells for vehicles or as an alternative to fossil fuels.
Consumer Products
Smoke detectors, watches, clocks, and many other everyday products use radioactive materials called radioisotopes to function correctly. Smoke detectors contain the radioisotope americium-241, which ionizes the air to detect smoke. Other products, like cookware and photocopiers, contain other forms of radioisotopes to improve their overall performance. Gemstones may contain small amounts of radiation to enhance their color and increase their value. Manufacturers and regulatory agencies adhere to safety standards set in place by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
Art Preservation
Nuclear technology is a valuable tool in preserving and restoring cultural artifacts and art. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) can identify chemical elements in pigments, which can help scientists determine authorship, detect forgeries, prevent degradation, and uncover hidden paintings beneath other layers of work. Ionizing radiation can be used to disinfect and clean historical artifacts like paintings and mummies by removing mold, fungi, and bacteria.
Medicine
A subspecialty within radiology, nuclear medicine employs tiny quantities of radioactive substances to diagnose and treat cancer, heart disease, neurological disorders, and other medical conditions. Radiotracers introduced into the body emit radiation that can be detected by imaging devices like gamma cameras. Radiopharmaceuticals are used to target and destroy diseased cells. The diagnostic and therapeutic advances of nuclear medicine continue to improve patient outcomes.
Food Production
Food irradiation, a process that uses gamma rays to kill bacteria on foodstuffs, helps to reduce spoilage and extend the shelf life of food products. It can help with pest control and delay the ripening of fruits and vegetables, which can help preserve food quality and reduce microbial contamination. Irradiation technology is supported in more than 60 countries, and innovations like low-energy electron beams and soft X-rays further advance the preservation and efficient processing of food.
How to Start a Nuclear Technology Career Someplace Other Than a Power Plant
Nuclear expertise is in demand in other industries outside power plants, such as health care, research, and environmental science. If working in a power plant doesn’t interest you, but you like the idea of pursuing a career in nuclear technology, your first step is to pursue a degree in nuclear engineering technology, radiation technology, or a related field. Laboratories, university research departments, private companies, and government agencies are all places where you can apply nuclear knowledge. Consider internships or entry-level roles in medical imaging or radiology departments, too. Networking through professional organizations, such as the American Nuclear Society (ANS), can help you find new and exciting opportunities, as well.
There are myriad jobs you can pursue in this wondrous field, with more applications being introduced every year as science continues to explore the seemingly limitless potential of nuclear technology. Discover how Excelsior University’s ABET-accredited, 100% online nuclear engineering technology program can help you reach your career goals, no matter where they may take you.
