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Japan To Create a Nuclear Meltdown

Taco Cowboy writes "Japanese researchers are planning an experiment to better understand what transpires during a nuclear meltdown by attempting to create a controlled nuclear meltdown. Using a scaled down version of a nuclear reactor — essentially a meter long stainless steel container — the experiment will involve the insertion of a foot long (30 cm) nuclear fuel rod, starting the fission process, and then draining the coolant. The experiment is scheduled to take place later this year."

9 of 222 comments (clear)

  1. WTF? by TWX · · Score: 2, Funny

    I mean, didn't they see all those Godzilla movies?

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    Do not look into laser with remaining eye.
  2. Re:We all know what's going to happen... by Zoolander · · Score: 3, Funny

    Cute. Cuddly. Deadly.

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    Meep.
  3. I thought that experiment was already underway by Marrow · · Score: 1, Funny

    Just give it a little time folks. You will have your answer just like the rest of the world, only sooner.

  4. Re:sure by jalopezp · · Score: 5, Funny

    It's possible that because of some failure, their test reactor does not melt down.

  5. Re:Environmental impact? by Sockatume · · Score: 4, Funny

    Being a major industrialised nation with a nuclear power program, Japan has no nuclear research facilities so they're going to do it in downtown Tokyo.

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    No kidding!!! What do you say at this point?
  6. your favorite monster sucks by Thud457 · · Score: 4, Funny

    holy crap, next you're gonna be blathering about non-existent sequels to "The Matrix", "Highlander" or Star Wars prequels.

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    the preceding comment is my own and in no way reflects the opinion of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

  7. Re:Great by Nemyst · · Score: 5, Funny

    The lizard pen of that facility is apparently really cool. A bit big for the lizards, though, and I'm not sure why it's so close to the reactor...

  8. Re:Good Idea by BigT · · Score: 5, Funny

    It won't tell you much about what happens when the fuel all melts and starts pooling at the bottom of the reactor of course

    They already did that experiment, but it was poorly instrumented.

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    Is it weird in here, or is it just me?
  9. Re:Great by Your.Master · · Score: 3, Funny

    That's very smug and glib, but your attitude is like saying that trains and cars are a waste of time because we'll eventually invent airplanes, and we can stick with horses until then.