Production of Radioisotope Thermal Fuel by Reactor and Its Application

The radioisotope thermoelectric generator which is employed in deep space exploration, converts heat from the natural decay of radioisotope materials into electrical power directly. The ²³⁸Pu radioisotopic fuel has potentials at decay period, specific thermal power and radiation protection, so it is widely adopted in space application. This paper outlines the production of ²³⁸Pu and its separation and purification process.