Which stage of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme focuses on ...
Overview of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme
India's nuclear power strategy is structured into three distinct stages, each designed to utilize different types of reactors and fuels. The ultimate aim is to achieve a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle, particularly focusing on the abundant thorium reserves in the country.
Stage 1: Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWR)
- Utilizes natural uranium as fuel.
- Produces plutonium which is critical for the next stage.
- Focuses on developing the infrastructure and technology for nuclear reactors.
Stage 2: Fast Breeder Reactors (FBR)
- Uses plutonium-uranium mixed oxide (MOX) fuel.
- Aims to breed more fissile material (plutonium) than it consumes.
- Enhances the use of uranium resources, setting the stage for thorium utilization.
Stage 3: Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR)
- This stage focuses on utilizing uranium-233 and thorium.
- Aims to achieve a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle by converting thorium into fissile uranium-233.
- Incorporates advanced safety features and aims for higher efficiency in fuel utilization.
- Represents a significant step towards utilizing India’s vast thorium reserves.
Importance of Stage 3
- Addresses energy security by capitalizing on thorium, which is more abundant in India than uranium.
- Supports long-term sustainability in nuclear energy production.
- Reduces reliance on imported fuels and enhances self-sufficiency.
In conclusion, Stage 3 of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme, through the Advanced Heavy Water Reactor, is pivotal in realizing a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle by effectively using uranium-233 derived from thorium.
Which stage of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme focuses on ...
Stage 3 of India's Three Stage Nuclear Power Programme focuses on achieving a sustainable nuclear fuel cycle using uranium-233 and thorium in Advanced Heavy Water Reactors (AHWRs).