Superphénix

Superphénix or SPX was a nuclear power plant located in Creys-Malville, France. It was a Fast Breeder Reactor (FBR), a type of reactor designed to produce more nuclear fuel than it consumes. Superphénix was the largest FBR ever built and was operational from 1986 to 1997.

History

Superphénix was a joint project between France, Italy, and Germany, with France holding the majority stake. The construction of the plant began in 1974 and was completed in 1984. However, due to various technical and political issues, the plant did not start commercial operation until 1986.

Design and Operation

Superphénix was a sodium-cooled fast reactor, a type of FBR that uses liquid sodium as a coolant. The reactor had a thermal power of 3,200 MW and a net electrical output of 1,200 MW. The fuel used in the reactor was a mix of plutonium and uranium.

The operation of Superphénix was marked by several technical issues and shutdowns. The most significant of these was a leak in the sodium cooling system in 1990, which led to a shutdown of the plant for more than a year.

Closure and Decommissioning

Superphénix was permanently shut down in 1997 due to a combination of technical issues, high operating costs, and public opposition to nuclear power. The decommissioning process began in 1998 and is expected to be completed by 2030.

Legacy

Despite its problems, Superphénix played a significant role in the development of FBR technology. The lessons learned from its operation have been used in the design of newer FBRs, such as the Phénix reactor in France and the Monju reactor in Japan.

See also

• Nuclear power in France
• Fast breeder reactor
• Nuclear decommissioning