What is China's first thorium molten salt reactor?

It is the world's first operational reactor using thorium fuel and molten salt as a coolant, developed by Chinese scientists.

Why is thorium better than uranium for nuclear power?

Thorium produces less radioactive waste with a shorter lifespan and is more difficult to weaponize, offering a safer energy alternative.

What are China's future plans for thorium energy?

China is building larger thorium reactors and plans to power container ships with thorium to reduce carbon emissions.

Home / Environment / China Ignites Clean Energy Future With Thorium Reactor

China Ignites Clean Energy Future With Thorium Reactor

29 Nov

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Summary

China successfully loaded fuel into the world's first working thorium molten salt reactor.
Thorium reactors produce less, shorter-lived radioactive waste than uranium.
China is expanding thorium tech to container ships and larger power plants.

China Ignites Clean Energy Future With Thorium Reactor

Scientists in China have reached a major milestone in clean energy by constructing and fueling the world's first operational thorium molten salt reactor (MSR). This development marks a significant departure from traditional uranium-based nuclear power, which generates long-lived, highly radioactive waste and poses proliferation risks. Thorium, conversely, offers a path to reduced, less radioactive waste with a shorter decay period and is more challenging to weaponize.

The reactor, located in the Gobi Desert with a two-megawatt output, builds upon research initiated decades ago in the United States. Chinese researchers have not only replicated but also advanced the foundational MSR technology. Fission using thorium is presented as a more economical and environmentally sound energy source compared to fossil fuels, producing no planet-warming pollution.