Research Laboratory for Nuclear Reactors, Tokyo Institute of Technology, 2-12-1 O-okayama, Meguro-ku, Tokyo 152, Japan

Abstract

Nuclear development can be defined, in a broad sense, as nuclear science and technology, which are both based on the reactions involved in radiation such as neutrons, gamma rays, and other charged particles with nuclei. The nuclear reaction is the shared basis of nuclear science and technology, and the nuclear development must be more than simply development of energy sources. On the long term, we should come to think of nuclear development as harmonization rather than utilization. Nuclear development ranges from the microscopic level of nuclei to the macroscopic level of cosmos. The associated science and technology include many regions with ultramodern features and many on a gigantic scale. For realization of this goal, we need talent, funds, and time for development. In furthering nuclear development, the first step is to make accurate long-term projections for years, indeed generations, still to come. A correct understanding of politics, the economy, and society is needed if issues to be resolved are to be identified and if practical measures are to be established while flexibility in development is preserved. Nuclear development has many potential contributions to make to society. On the other hand, it involves no small hazard.

The development of nuclear energy so far has not given rise to major events except in the Chernobyl accident. This degree of success suggests that safety of nuclear development can be achieved and that environmental damage can be minimized. The following items should be on the program for nuclear science and technology in the 21st century:

• -Development of self-consistent nuclear energy systems (SCNES)

• -Evolution of nuclear development as science and technology

• -Multipurpose uses of nuclear system, and radiation applications

• -Formation of regional communities in the 21st century with nuclear development

• -Furtherance of nuclear development without anxiety

• -Contributions of nuclear development to global environmental issues

• -Achievement of international contributions and cooperation in nuclear development

Author Keywords: nuclear science and technology; self-consistent nuclear energy system; fast breeder reactor; plutonium issue; global environment; atompolis concept; trilemma