Food irradiation has been studied for years, but now with new Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of low-dose radiation, it may become a popular method to retard food spoilage. Radiolytic products, feeding studies, and nuclear issues are among the areas addressed. (JN)

Summarizes some aspects of the environmental impact draft statement prepared to assess the feasibility of liquid-metal fast-breeder reactors in commercial power generation. (CC)

The National Center for Energy Management and Power at the University of Pennsylvania is committed to advancing the technology of energy conversion and training people to manage effectively whatever form the energy industry assumes in the future, including measurement of the impact of developments on both producer and consumer. (DF)

Synthesis and polymerization of vinyl monomers that double as stabilizers against degradation of plastics by ultraviolet light has been accomplished. Potential applications include protection of photovoltaic cells in solar power plants. (Author/RE)

Discusses an engineering conference at which participants agreed that solar energy is a feasible energy source, although costs of such technology are presently very high. Also describes recent developments in solar energy research, and estimates the costs of this technology. (MLH)