Uranium enrichment is one of the key processes in the nuclear fuel supply chain. After mining and conversion, uranium is enriched to a level that makes it suitable for the fabrication of fuel for types of nuclear power and research reactors.
The URENCO uranium enrichment plant at Almelo, Netherlands, enriches uranium for clients worldwide to a maximum licensed enrichment level of 6%. The technology at enrichment plants can also be used to manufacture highly enriched uranium (over 20%) and weapons grade uranium (over 85%). Therefore, there is a risk of nuclear proliferation and facilities of this kind come under IAEA Safeguards Agreements. Through inspections, the IAEA confirms that countries are using nuclear materials or technology for peaceful purposes only. IAEA Safeguards Inspector, Ania Kimberly Kaminski, explains the activities and the purpose of an inspection at the URENCO plant.