Status of Molten Salt Reactor Technology

Abstract

This publication summarizes the current knowledge on the status of research activities, technological developments, reactor designs and experiments in the area of advanced reactors that are related to MSRs. In this publication, an MSR is defined as any reactor in which a molten salt has a prominent role in the reactor core (i.e. as fuel, coolant and/or moderator). The publication is targeted at government officials from Member States with technical backgrounds, research institutes and university students working on related topics, commercial organizations working or planning to design and build MSRs, and IAEA staff working in this field. The publication will specifically 2 benefit newcomer Member States that wish to understand the technology and R&D needs of MSRs for electricity and cogeneration applications. The publication aims not only to present a balanced view of the status and potential advantages of the MSR technology, but also to identify challenges and technology areas in which R&D is required before deployment is achievable. The work undertaken in the preparation of this publication provided Member States with an opportunity to share information on their MSR programmes and projects. The global development of advanced reactor technology is changing and advancing rapidly. Efforts were made to ensure that the technical information presented in this publication is as up to date as practicable. Guidance and recommendations provided here in relation to identified good practices represent expert opinion but are not made on the basis of a consensus of all Member States.