Title: Fast neutron reactors: development in future decades

Authors: C. Pierre Zaleski

Addresses: Universite de Paris IX-Dauphine, Place Marechal de Lattre de Tassigny, 75116 Paris, France

Abstract: The |sustainability| of nuclear power generation is an important objective for world development. This goal requires maintaining open the option of fast neutron breeder reactors. The main challenge is to have breeder technology ready for the day when massive deployment of fast neutron breeder reactors may be needed. To accomplish this, construction of a few prototypes is likely to be insufficient; a more quantitative fast neutron operating experience is necessary. This may be achieved by promoting specific near-term applications of fast neutron reactors, using their remarkable flexibility which makes it possible to burn, to store, or to breed plutonium. These applications - the CAPRA project, the CAPTURE concept - in addition to accomplishing specific near-term objectives, will yield indispensable experience for future breeder development.

Keywords: fast breeder reactors; FBR; CAPRA project; CAPTURE concept; long-term prospects; Europe; energy policy; plutonium proliferation; nuclear power; nuclear energy.

DOI: 10.1504/IJGEI.1995.063429

International Journal of Global Energy Issues, 1995 Vol.8 No.1/2/3, pp.133-142

Published online: 14 Jul 2014 *

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