UPDATED US uranium enrichment company USEC is to file for voluntary bankruptcy during the first quarter of 2014 as part of a financial restructuring plan. The filing is not expected to affect ongoing operations or the American Centrifuge research, development and demonstration program.
The second phase of the Urenco USA uranium enrichment plant is now fully operational, with the plant working at a capacity of 3.7 million separative work units (SWU). 48.jpg "Depleted uranium hexafluoride cylinders (DoE)_48")
Global Laser Enrichment will enter talks with the US Department of Energy after its proposal to build and operate a laser enrichment facility at shut down Paducah plant was selected. Off-specification inventory will be processed by Areva.-48.jpg "Rouhani press conf (Iranian Presidency)_48")
Iran is to limit its uranium enrichment activities in return for some easing of economic sanctions. The new agreement with the P5+1 countries is seen as a significant step towards a long-term comprehensive solution.
Buildings at USEC's Paducah gaseous diffusion uranium enrichment plant in Kentucky were damaged by a powerful storm. The plant ceased enrichment operations earlier this year.
A final shipment of low-enriched uranium has marked the completion of Russia's commitments under the Megatons to Megawatts program. The US-Russian agreement to downblend weapons-grade uranium will expire later this year.