When large amounts of radioactive materials like plutonium or uranium get mixed with heavy water (deuterium oxide), several things can happen depending on the specific conditions and concentrations involved. Here are a few possible scenarios:
Moderation of neutrons: Heavy water, due to the presence of deuterium (a heavy isotope of hydrogen), can act as a moderator for neutrons. Neutrons released during the radioactive decay of plutonium or uranium can interact with the deuterium nuclei in heavy water, slowing them down and increasing their chances of inducing further nuclear reactions.
Enhanced neutron capture: Both plutonium and uranium have isotopes that readily capture neutrons, leading to the formation of heavier isotopes and potentially inducing fission. The presence of heavy water can increase the likelihood of neutron capture by these isotopes, potentially leading to a higher rate of nuclear reactions.
Production of tritium: Deuterium oxide (heavy water) can undergo nuclear reactions, such as deuteron (deuterium nucleus) bombardment, leading to the production of tritium, a radioactive isotope of hydrogen. Tritium is highly valuable for nuclear weapons and some types of nuclear reactors.
It is important to note that the behavior of plutonium, uranium, and heavy water together is highly complex and dependent on various factors such as concentrations, temperature, pressure, and the presence of other substances. These interactions are extensively studied in the field of nuclear chemistry and physics to understand and control nuclear reactions in different contexts.