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Although in many ways thorium would be a better radioactive element to use for nuclear power, it's also more difficult to weaponise than uranium. Uranium and plutonium have long been at the heart of nuclear power, but many experts see thorium as a better option.

Why are thorium reactors not used?

Thorium cannot in itself power a reactor; unlike natural uranium, it does not contain enough fissile material to initiate a nuclear chain reaction. As a result it must first be bombarded with neutrons to produce the highly radioactive isotope uranium-233 – 'so these are really U-233 reactors,' says Karamoskos.

Are thorium reactors being built?

At least one of the 2MW thorium prototypes, either a molten salt reactor, or a molten salt-cooled reactor, is nearing completion, with startup in September 2021.

What are the downsides to thorium reactors?

Emission of gamma rays: Presence of Uranium-232 in irradiated thorium or thorium based fuels in large amounts is one of the major disadvantages of thorium nuclear power reactors. It can result in significant emissions of gamma rays.

Are thorium reactors a good idea?

Thorium reactors are a different way to generate electricity that could benefit the world. More efficient than their fossil fuel counterparts, safer than a conventional nuclear plant, and generating no carbon emissions as a byproduct, LFTRs are a viable solution for the future of our world's energy needs.

Will we run out of thorium?

This means that even in our extreme scenario, the combined uranium and thorium of the United States would be enough to power the world for about 100.000 years.

Can thorium reactors meltdown?

Most importantly, meltdowns aren't possible with thorium reactors because the reaction is not self-sustaining. That last safety advantage is also the main drawback of thorium. You need a little uranium and a neutron source to get the reaction kickstarted.

Is China building thorium reactors?

The construction of the site began on September 30, 2018. This experimental nuclear reactor will use thorium as fuel. China could become the first country to have the opportunity to commercialise this technology.

Is thorium named after Thor?

In 1815, for example, Berzelius isolated a new element from a mineral sent to him from the Swedish mining town of Falun and named it thorium after the Scandinavian god of thunder, Thor….

What countries use thorium reactors?

Nature and sources of thorium