Unmaking the Bomb: A Fissile Material Approach to Nuclear Disarmament and Nonproliferation

by Harold A. Feiveson, Alexander Glaser, Zia Mian

A new approach to nuclear disarmament, nonproliferation, and the prevention of nuclear terrorism that focuses on controlling the production and stockpiling of nuclear materials. Achieving nuclear disarmament, stopping nuclear proliferation, and preventing nuclear terrorism are among the most critical challenges facing the world today. Unmaking the Bomb proposes a new approach to reaching these long-held goals. Rather than considering them as separate issues, the authors—physicists and experts on nuclear security—argue that all three of these goals can be understood and realized together if we focus on the production, stockpiling, and disposal of plutonium and highly enriched uranium—the fissile materials that are the key ingredients used to make nuclear weapons. The authors describe the history, production, national stockpiles, and current military and civilian uses of plutonium and highly enriched uranium, and propose policies aimed at reducing and eventually eliminating these fissile materials worldwide. These include an end to the production of highly enriched uranium and plutonium for weapons, an end to their use as reactor fuels, and the verified elimination of all national stockpiles.

Genres: Politics, Science

277 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2014

Reviews

[Mika · Rating 3 out of 5]

I liked the book a lot, although a bit disturbing and nightmarish feelings while reading, I learnt a good deal of new stuff about nuclear energy. I recommend this to everyone interested in energy and especially for those wondering how difficult it is to get rid of nuclear waste. I read the Finnish edition, with which I wasn't too happy about the quality of translation.

[Mikko · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting information about fissile materials and side effects of nuclear energy. Unfortunately the Finnish translation was poorly edited.