Proliferation-resistant nuclear fuel cycles

The properties of plutonium containing unusally large proportions of the 238Pu isotope are considered in relation to resistance to nuclear proliferation. Several fuel cycle modifications for light water reactors are evaluated. It is shown that the 238Pu isotopic concentration can be increased substantially from the approximately 1.5% in discharged fuel from reactors operating presently. Concentrations of 8 to 10% are readily achievable, and values approaching 20% may be practical.