China builds world’s first working thorium reactor

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Experts have long viewed thorium reactors as the next leap in energy innovation. Some scientists estimate that a single thorium-rich mine in Inner Mongolia could theoretically supply China's energy needs for tens of thousands of years with far less radioactive waste than current uranium-based reactors.

China to build first-ever thorium molten salt nuclear power station in Gobi Desert (September 2024)
www.abc.net.au

... In short:

China is planning to build the world's first-ever nuclear power station using molten salt as the fuel carrier and coolant, and thorium as a fuel source.

Experts say the reactors are "inherently safer" than traditional nuclear reactors and have other advantages, but scientists have long struggled with challenges such as the corrosive nature of the superheated radioactive salts.

What's next?

Construction on the research facility is due to start next year with operation expected in 2030, followed by full-scale production. ...

#1 | Posted by LampLighter at 2025-04-20 09:39 PM | Reply

#1 It's running and they just showed it can be refueled while running. This tech is a contender for the SMR's we are looking for. And that may be it in the picture - it's small, and 2 MW powers 200-1000 homes depending on load.

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#2 | Posted by HeliumRat at 2025-04-20 11:17 PM | Reply

Who built the first broken one?

#3 | Posted by snoofy at 2025-04-20 11:25 PM | Reply | Funny: 1

Just stick to making mini black holes. What could possibly go wrong?

#4 | Posted by LegallyYourDead at 2025-04-20 11:43 PM | Reply