List of nuclear reactors

Template:Infobox list List of Nuclear Reactors is a comprehensive catalog of all the nuclear reactors around the world, including those that are operational, under construction, decommissioned, or planned. Nuclear reactors are devices used to initiate and control a sustained nuclear chain reaction. They are a key component of nuclear power plants used for generating electricity and for other applications, such as research and the production of isotopes for medical and industrial uses.

Types of Nuclear Reactors

Nuclear reactors can be classified into several types based on their design, moderator material, and cooling systems. The most common types include:

• Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs)
• Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs)
• Pressurized Heavy-Water Reactors (PHWRs)
• Gas-Cooled Reactors (GCRs)
• Light Water Graphite Reactors (LWGRs)
• Fast Neutron Reactors (FNRs)

Operational Reactors

Operational reactors are those currently in use for generating power or for research purposes. They are spread across various countries, with the highest concentrations in the United States, France, and China. Each reactor is listed with its name, location, type, and operational status.

Under Construction

This section includes reactors that are currently under construction. These reactors are expected to enhance the nuclear capacity of their respective countries upon completion. The list provides details on the expected completion dates and the technologies used.

Decommissioned Reactors

Decommissioned reactors are those that have been retired from service. This section provides information on the decommissioning process, which involves removing a facility or site safely from service and reducing residual radioactivity to a level that permits other uses of the property.

Planned Reactors

Planned reactors are those that are in the stages of planning or have been proposed. This list includes potential future reactors that are expected to be built to meet increasing energy demands or to replace older reactors.

Safety and Regulation

The operation of nuclear reactors is governed by strict safety standards and regulations to prevent nuclear accidents and to ensure the protection of the environment and public health. Regulatory bodies such as the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in the United States and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) internationally, play critical roles in overseeing nuclear safety.

Environmental Impact

Nuclear reactors are a significant source of low-carbon electricity, which can help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, they also produce nuclear waste that must be carefully managed and stored.

See Also

• Nuclear power
• Nuclear safety
• Nuclear energy policy
• List of nuclear power plants