Jordan Eyes 41K Tons Of Yellowcake For Nuclear Energy

(MENAFN- Jordan News Agency)

Amman, July 16 (Petra) -- Experts estimate that central Jordan's uranium deposits could yield approximately 41,000 tons of yellowcake, according to Khaled Al-Khasawneh, Commissioner of Nuclear Reactors at the Jordan Atomic energy Commission (JAEC).
Al-Khasawneh made this announcement during a specialized lecture organized by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources in collaboration with the JAEC. The lecture focused on the positive impact of nuclear power reactors in addressing Jordan's energy and water challenges.
He emphasized the strategic importance of these uranium deposits, stating they could serve as a primary source of fuel for Jordan's nuclear power reactors. The Jordanian Uranium Mining Company is currently managing the uranium project in central Jordan, focusing on exploration and developing optimal processing methods for uranium ore.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Al-Khasawneh outlined the commission's plans to incorporate small modular reactors (SMRs) into the national energy mix. He highlighted the global recognition of nuclear power as a leading low-carbon energy source, with applications across various sectors. Technical assessments and economic feasibility studies for several SMR designs are in progress, along with detailed feasibility studies on using nuclear power for water desalination and pumping in Jordan.
Al-Khasawneh noted ongoing studies aimed at integrating SMRs with the national carrier project, which could significantly contribute to reducing energy production costs. Compared to traditional energy sources, nuclear power can alleviate financial burdens on governments by offering a more cost-effective solution.
He also discussed the versatility of SMRs, designed for multiple purposes such as electricity generation, seawater desalination, and hydrogen production. These capabilities enhance the reactors' overall efficiency and benefits. Al-Khasawneh highlighted SMRs' reduced cooling water requirements compared to large traditional nuclear reactors, allowing for more flexible site selection away from water sources.
The lecture also covered the main components of Jordan's nuclear program, which support and complement the Jordanian nuclear power reactor project. This includes the Jordan Research and Training Reactor and the uranium exploration and mining project.
Al-Khasawneh underscored the crucial role of the Jordan Research and Training Reactor, located at the Jordan University of Science and Technology. The reactor is pivotal in training new generations of nuclear researchers, scientists, and engineers. It also produces medical and industrial radioactive isotopes, such as iodine-131, which are distributed to hospitals, medical centers, and nuclear medicine clinics across the Kingdom. Iodine-131 is used for cancer diagnosis and treatment per approved pharmaceutical standards and specifications.
The lecture concluded with a comprehensive overview of how nuclear power reactors can substantially lower energy production costs and enhance Jordan's energy security, marking a significant step forward in the country's pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.

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