How India’s nuclear energy programme transitions from uranium to thorium
India's nuclear energy program is transitioning from uranium to thorium due to limited uranium availability. The program has three stages, with the first stage using uranium, the second stage using plutonium, and the third stage using thorium to achieve self-sufficiency.
India's nuclear energy program has three stages. The first stage uses uranium-fueled Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors. However, India has limited access to uranium. The second stage will use plutonium-based mixed oxide fuel for the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor. The third stage will use thorium-based Advanced Heavy Water Reactors to achieve self-sufficiency. Uranium, thorium, and plutonium are nuclear materials with different properties. Uranium is a naturally occurring radioactive element, while thorium is fertile and can be converted into uranium-233. Plutonium is produced in nuclear reactors and has multiple isotopes. India's transition to thorium is crucial for its nuclear energy program's long-term sustainability.
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