In a significant step for nuclear innovation, China has commenced operations at the world’s first commercial-scale nuclear reactor powered by thorium. This molten salt reactor (MSR) sets itself apart from traditional designs by using thorium-232 as the core fuel instead of uranium.
How Thorium Reactors Work
Thorium, while fertile, is not inherently fissile—meaning it cannot independently sustain a chain reaction. However, under neutron bombardment, it undergoes a transformation that enables energy generation:
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Neutron Capture: Thorium-232 absorbs a neutron and becomes thorium-233.
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First Beta Decay: Thorium-233 transforms into protactinium-233.
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Second Beta Decay: Protactinium-233 then decays into uranium-233, a fissile material capable of sustaining a nuclear chain reaction.
This sequence, known as the thorium fuel cycle, offers a promising pathway to generate nuclear power with reduced long-lived radioactive waste compared to conventional uranium-based systems.
Advantages of Thorium-Based Reactors
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Greater Availability: Thorium is more plentiful in the Earth’s crust—estimated to be 3 to 4 times more abundant than uranium.
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Enhanced Safety: MSRs operate at high temperatures but low pressure, significantly reducing the likelihood of core meltdowns.
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Lower Waste Output: These reactors generate far less long-term nuclear waste, simplifying storage and disposal challenges.
This breakthrough highlights thorium’s potential as a safer, more sustainable solution in the pursuit of cleaner energy. It could reshape the global nuclear landscape by addressing long-standing concerns related to safety, waste, and fuel supply.
Source- TW
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