IMPACT OF THORIUM-BASED NUCLEAR FUEL IN NUCLEAR POWER PLANTS

Abstract

In an attempt to solve the energy deficit globally, it is crucial to explore various forms of power generation. In this regard, nuclear power plants could play an integral role in bridging the large gap created in the energy sector for most countries in Africa. Only South Africa has a nuclear power plant even though she still has energy generation problems. Egypt is constructing its first nuclear power plant in El - Dabaa which is projected to supply 4.8 Gigawatt of power. This article aims to highlight the importance of Thorium-based fuel in prolonging the fuel lifetime of the reactor unit, hence reducing operation costs due to the low cost of fuel, reduced radioactive waste, and low risk of proliferation of nuclear materials. Earlier research conducted on Thorium-based fuel in contrast to uranium-based fuel revealed that introducing the thorium fuel cycle will improve the fuel lifetime by over 80% and fuel burn-up by over 50% for an improved fuel rod diameter which will not lead to nucleate boiling in typical floating nuclear power plants.