Why is it in the news?
BARC study highlighted concerns over its use.
Linked to India’s nuclear energy programme.
Category: Science & Tech
Important Points:
● Combines enriched uranium (U-235) with thorium
● Thorium acts as fertile material producing U-233
● Provides higher burn-up and efficiency
● Generates less radioactive waste
● Reduces effectiveness of reactor safety systems
● Requires major reactor design modifications
● Not suitable for immediate deployment
● Explored for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
● Important for India’s three-stage nuclear programme