新华鲜报｜燃料从“铀”到“钍”！我国实现钍基熔盐堆研发突破

Core Insights - The successful construction of a new experimental reactor has enabled the diversification of nuclear fuel from "uranium" to "thorium" [1] - The thorium-based molten salt reactor has achieved the world's first thorium-uranium fuel conversion and has become the only operational molten salt reactor utilizing thorium [1] - This technology aligns with China's abundant thorium resources and can integrate with renewable energy sources, creating a low-carbon composite energy system [1] Group 1 - The thorium molten salt reactor operates at high temperatures using liquid salt as a coolant, eliminating the need for high-pressure vessels and large amounts of water for cooling, making it safer and more efficient [1] - The project began in 2011 under the Chinese Academy of Sciences, focusing on advanced nuclear fission energy systems, with a collaborative team overcoming numerous technical challenges [2] - The experimental reactor construction started in January 2020, with plans for full power operation by June 2024 and the completion of the world's first thorium addition to a molten salt reactor by October 2024 [2] Group 2 - The research team aims to establish a 100-megawatt thorium molten salt reactor demonstration project by 2035, accelerating technology iteration and engineering transformation [2] - The project has involved nearly a hundred domestic research institutions, universities, and industrial groups, marking a significant leap from laboratory research to engineering validation [2]