Definition of fuel rod

The term "fuel rod" originates from the design and operation of nuclear reactors. In a nuclear reactor, uranium atoms are used as fuel to produce energy through a process called nuclear fission. To achieve this, the uranium is enriched and shaped into small, cylindrical fuel elements, which are called fuel rods. Each fuel rod contains a small number of uranium fuel pellets, typically around 300, which are fabricated into an oxide or metal form. The fuel rods are arranged in arrays called fuel assemblies, which are then inserted into the core of the reactor. The heat generated by the fission of the uranium is used to create steam, which then drives turbines to generate electricity. The heat is transferred from the fuel rods to a coolant or moderator, such as water, which helps to control the rate of fission and prevents the fuel from melting or overheating. Over time, as the fuel in the rods is consumed through fission, new rods are added to maintain the desired level of activity in the reactor. Eventually, the used-up fuel rods are removed from the reactor for storage and eventual disposal or reprocessing. Because the fuel rods contain highly radioactive materials, their safe handling and transportation is a critical issue in the nuclear industry.