Molten Salt Reactors: a New Vision for a Generation IV Concept

Abstract

Molten Salt Reactors were developed at Oak Ridge (ORNL) from the late 1940s to the early 1970s, highlighted by two successful test reactors. The Molten Salt Breeder Reactor (MSBR) evolved into a single fluid, graphite moderated design. Until very recently, this 1970s design version has been taken to be the starting point for any resurgence of the Molten Salt concept. This paper will show that a Molten Salt Reactor can in fact take many different forms. Through new solutions and applying new technology, it is hoped that an improved design can be brought to such a level that it can no long be ignored as a practical ally in the resurgence of nuclear power.