Atoms in the developing nations

Abstract

The history of political and technological developments of nuclear energy in Brazil is traced and arguments presented for pursuing nuclear energy only in those nations with a democratic form of government. Nuclear physics research in Brazil dates back to the 1940s. Its significance was acknowledged with the creation of the National Research Council in 1951. Cooperation with the U.S. Atomic Energy Commission, which would have included the export of thorium-rich minerals to the U.S. in exchange for information and assistance with nuclear power plants in Brazil, was precluded by the McMahon Act. This led to liaisons with West Germany and France in the 1950s. Events since then are outlined in terms of the impact of Brazil's political and economic crises. A nuclear sales agreement with Germany in 1975 has prompted concern over matters of independence and the threat of proliferation.