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Embattled breeder reactor

Journal Article · · High Technol.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5568852
A commercial fuel-cloning machine, a nuclear breeder reactor, is yet to produce electricity in the United States. It is expensive in capital and fuel costs, its fuel that must be reprocessed can become a link to nuclear weapons manufacture, and its safety is no greater than conventional nuclear reactors. The breeder has had on-again/off-again administrative support from Washington. Opponents worry about escalating costs and failure to develop alternatives like solar energy. Proponents say fossil-fuel depletion will eventually force long-term renewable resources such as the breeder anyway. Some who share parts of both views oppose present policy regarding the Clinch River Breeder demonstration plant specifically. The correct choices on breeder concept development and commercialization will be known in 2050. 3 figures.
OSTI ID:
5568852
Journal Information:
High Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: High Technol.; (United States) Vol. 3:7; ISSN HTECD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English