Breeder — Reactor

A breeder reactor is a specialized nuclear reactor that generates more fissile fuel than it consumes. While conventional reactors primarily burn rare uranium-235, breeders convert abundant "fertile" materials like uranium-238 or thorium-232 into fuel, potentially extending the world's nuclear fuel supply for centuries. Core Mechanics

: Neutrons from a fissioning core are absorbed by a "blanket" of fertile material (e.g., U-238), transforming it into fissile isotopes (e.g., Pu-239). breeder reactor

: They often use liquid metals like sodium because of their excellent heat transfer properties and high boiling points. Major Types The rise and demise of the Clinch River Breeder Reactor A breeder reactor is a specialized nuclear reactor

: Most breeders are "fast" reactors that do not use a moderator (like water) to slow down neutrons, allowing for more efficient conversion of fertile material. : They often use liquid metals like sodium