fast-breeder reactor
Quick Summary
A fast-breeder reactor is a type of nuclear reactor that uses high-energy neutrons to produce more fissionable material than it consumes. This process extends the supply of nuclear fuel for energy generation. Unlike conventional reactors that primarily use uranium-235, fast breeders can utilize more abundant isotopes like uranium-238 or thorium.
In a liquid-metal fast breeder reactor, uranium-238 is converted into fissionable plutonium-239. This plutonium is then bombarded with high-speed neutrons, causing it to split and release energy and more neutrons, sustaining a chain reaction. This heat is used to produce steam for electricity generation. Proposed designs also include gas-cooled and lead-cooled fast reactors.12
Ask Britannica AI about this topic
Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.