What Materials Act as Catalysts in Nuclear Reactors?
In nuclear reactors, several materials act in ways analogous to catalysts: - Control rods: Made of materials like cadmium or boron, these rods absorb excess neutrons, controlling the rate of the chain reaction. - Coolants: Substances like water, carbon dioxide, or liquid metals transfer heat away from the reactor core, indirectly influencing the fission rate by maintaining optimal temperatures. - Reflectors: Materials such as beryllium or graphite reflect neutrons back into the reactor core, enhancing the efficiency of the fission process.
