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    "James M. Acton"
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Source: Getty

In The Media

What Higher Radiation Levels Could Mean for Japan

Reports of increased radiation levels in the turbine room of Japan’s damaged nuclear reactor in Fukushima have increased concerns that damage has been done to the steel container that encloses the nuclear core.

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By James M. Acton
Published on Mar 25, 2011
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Program

Nuclear Policy

The Nuclear Policy Program aims to reduce the risk of nuclear war. Our experts diagnose acute risks stemming from technical and geopolitical developments, generate pragmatic solutions, and use our global network to advance risk-reduction policies. Our work covers deterrence, disarmament, arms control, nonproliferation, and nuclear energy.

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Source: CBS

CBS' Katie Couric spoke with Carnegie's James Acton on what the higher levels of radiation found in Japan and a possible reactor breach could mean for the country. Responding to reports of increased levels of radiation found in the turbine room outside of reactor 3 of Japan’s Daiichi nuclear reactor in Fukushima, Acton explained that the location of the water and several other factors suggest that it is more likely that the leak is coming from somewhere else and not the reactor pressure vessel.
 

About the Author

James M. Acton

Jessica T. Mathews Chair, Co-director, Nuclear Policy Program

Acton holds the Jessica T. Mathews Chair and is co-director of the Nuclear Policy Program at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

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James M. Acton
Jessica T. Mathews Chair, Co-director, Nuclear Policy Program
James M. Acton
Nuclear PolicyNuclear EnergyEast AsiaJapan

Carnegie does not take institutional positions on public policy issues; the views represented herein are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of Carnegie, its staff, or its trustees.

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