Group 1 - The 2 megawatt liquid fuel thorium molten salt experimental reactor, led by the Shanghai Institute of Applied Physics, has achieved thorium-uranium fuel conversion, making it the only operational molten salt reactor utilizing thorium fuel globally [1] - Thorium molten salt reactors are advanced fourth-generation nuclear energy systems that use thorium as fuel and high-temperature molten salt as a coolant, offering safety and efficiency without the need for large pressure vessels or extensive water cooling [1] - The GH3535 alloy produced by Fushun Special Steel Co., Ltd. is a key material that supports the extreme conditions of the fourth-generation nuclear energy system [1] Group 2 - The development of the GH3535 alloy began in 2012, with the research team overcoming challenges in precise composition control and metal segregation through extensive experimentation and process improvements [2] - The alloy's high-temperature deformation resistance and narrow thermal processing window posed significant challenges during forging, which were addressed through close collaboration with skilled workers and iterative adjustments to processing techniques [2] - Fushun Special Steel has achieved a supply ratio exceeding 95% for the thorium molten salt reactor's core components, marking a significant milestone in their capabilities and leading to new collaborations focused on the commercialization of larger and higher-grade GH3535 alloy components [3]
抚顺特钢造出钍基熔盐反应堆“筋骨”