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The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission is in the process of rescinding or revising guidance and policies posted on this webpage in accordance with Executive Order 14151 Ending Radical and Wasteful Government DEI Programs and Preferencing, and Executive Order 14168 Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government. In the interim, any previously issued diversity, equity, inclusion, or gender-related guidance on this webpage should be considered rescinded that is inconsistent with these Executive Orders.

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Uranium enrichment process

The process of increasing the percentage of uranium-235 (U-235) from 0.7 percent in natural uranium to about 3 to 5 percent for use in fuel for nuclear reactors. Enrichment can be done through gaseous diffusion, gas centrifuges, or laser isotope separation. In May 2013, the last remaining U.S. operating gaseous diffusion plant in Paducah, KY, shut down. A similar plant near Piketon, OH, was closed in March 2001. Another plant in Oak Ridge, TN, closed years ago and was not regulated by the NRC.

Page Last Reviewed/Updated Wednesday, February 15, 2023