MOLTEN SALT REACTOR Meaning and
Definition
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A molten salt reactor (MSR) is a type of advanced nuclear reactor design that uses a liquid mixture of salts as its coolant and/or fuel. It operates on the principle of harnessing the energy released by nuclear fission to generate heat, which is then used to produce electricity. The core of a molten salt reactor consists of a mixture of fissile and/or fertile isotopes dissolved in a molten fluoride or chloride salt solution.
In an MSR, the salt coolant/fuel circulates through the reactor core, absorbing the heat produced by the fission reactions. This hot salt then transfers its thermal energy to a secondary loop, which may consist of a separate salt or an intermediate fluid like helium or water. This transferred heat can be utilized to produce steam that drives turbines to generate electricity.
One of the distinctive features of a molten salt reactor is its ability to operate at high temperatures, typically between 600 and 800 degrees Celsius, which enables better thermodynamic efficiency and potential for various applications beyond electricity generation. Additionally, the liquid fuel allows for online reprocessing of the fuel and offers inherent safety features, as the fuel expands and slows down the nuclear reaction in response to increased temperatures.
Molten salt reactors are being researched and developed as a potential advanced nuclear energy option due to their potential advantages of improved safety, reduced waste generation, and potential for utilization of abundant thorium fuel cycle. However, various technical and engineering challenges still need to be addressed before commercial deployment becomes feasible.
