/sci/ - Science & Math

>>5506275
There is limited research on long term properties of thorium reactors, and the NRC does not like risky prototype reactors, and existing and next generation BWR/PWR reactor design means thorium, an unusual fuel is not likely to be adopted. Some countries are starting small scale research projects due to the need for Uranium in military applications.

>>5506275
>Is this real?

Kind of. It's exaggerated.

>Why don't we use it if it is

We do. But:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thorium_fuel_cycle#Disadvantages_as_nuclear_fuel

Thorium salts are crazy corrosive and right now the only alloy we have that can resist it isn't made anymore (because it's super expensive to make and has no other use) and isn't certified for use in reactors (which is tough to fix because nobody makes it because it's expensive and it's not worth the risk of making it if it turns out not to pass certification).