New Delhi, April 7: The Indian government announced on Tuesday that the country’s first 500 megawatt Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) has successfully achieved criticality, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s nuclear technology sector. This achievement is expected to play a crucial role in providing reliable, low-carbon, high thermal efficiency energy.
The PFBR met all safety guidelines established by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) before reaching this critical state on Monday. Prime Minister Narendra Modi took to social media platform X to highlight this accomplishment as a decisive step forward for India’s civilian nuclear program.
He stated, “India has taken a significant step in advancing its civilian nuclear program and moving forward with the second phase of our nuclear initiative. The indigenously designed and constructed Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor has achieved criticality in Kalpakkam.”
Modi further emphasized that this advanced reactor, capable of producing more fuel than it consumes, showcases the country’s scientific and engineering capabilities. He noted that the program’s third phase aims to harness the vast thorium reserves available in India.
“This is a proud moment for India. Congratulations to our scientists and engineers,” he added.
The reactor was designed and developed by the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) and is operated by the Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI), a public sector enterprise under the central government.
Fast breeder reactors are a vital component of India’s three-stage nuclear energy program. Unlike traditional reactors, the PFBR uses uranium-plutonium mixed oxide (MOX) fuel and can generate more fissile material by converting uranium-238 into plutonium-239.
Additionally, this reactor is designed to eventually produce uranium-233 using thorium-232, supporting India’s long-term goal of utilizing its vast thorium reserves for clean energy production.
Officials stated that this achievement is a significant step towards connecting existing nuclear technologies with future thorium-based reactors, enhancing fuel efficiency and sustainability.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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