Fast-neutron reactor
Fast-neutron reactor is a type of nuclear reactor in which the fission chain reaction is sustained by fast neutrons. This is in contrast to thermal-neutron reactors, which rely on thermal (slow) neutrons to sustain the reaction. Fast-neutron reactors have the potential to provide a significant increase in the efficiency of uranium use, reducing the amount of waste produced.
History[edit | edit source]
The concept of a fast-neutron reactor was first proposed in the 1940s. The first experimental fast-neutron reactor, Clementine, was built in the United States in 1946. Since then, several countries, including Russia, France, and Japan, have developed and operated fast-neutron reactors.
Design and operation[edit | edit source]
Fast-neutron reactors are designed to operate with fast neutrons, which have a higher energy level than thermal neutrons. This is achieved by using a neutron moderator that does not slow down the neutrons as much as in a thermal-neutron reactor.
The fuel used in fast-neutron reactors is typically a mixture of plutonium and uranium, although other materials can also be used. The fuel is surrounded by a blanket of fertile material, such as thorium or uranium-238, which can be converted into fissile material by the fast neutrons.
Advantages and disadvantages[edit | edit source]
One of the main advantages of fast-neutron reactors is their ability to burn a wider range of nuclear fuels, including nuclear waste. This can potentially reduce the amount of waste produced by nuclear power plants and increase the efficiency of uranium use.
However, fast-neutron reactors also have several disadvantages. They are more complex and expensive to build and operate than thermal-neutron reactors. They also require a higher level of technical expertise and stricter safety measures due to the higher energy level of the neutrons.
Future prospects[edit | edit source]
Despite the challenges, there is ongoing interest in the development of fast-neutron reactors due to their potential benefits. Several countries, including China and India, are currently developing new fast-neutron reactors.
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