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Pebble bed modular reactor?the first Generation IV reactor to be constructed
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2004
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EngineeringAdvanced ReactorsEnergy EfficiencyReactor DesignHigh Temperature ReactorNuclear Reactor DesignSystems EngineeringNuclear ReactorsElectrical EngineeringNuclear FuelNuclear Systems EngineeringSubstantial InterestNuclear EngineeringNuclear PowerNuclear EnergyEnergy DevelopmentAdvanced Nuclear ReactorsSustainable EnergyNuclear Reactor EngineeringEnergy TransitionNuclear SafetyReactor Systems Engineering
Substantial interest has been generated in advanced reactors over the last few years, driven by the need for low‑carbon electricity and hydrogen and by governments’ desire for designs that improve safety, proliferation resistance, waste reduction, and economics. The Generation IV Nuclear Energy Systems programme was created to coordinate international research on advanced reactors, with the aim of deploying six selected designs by 2030. The selected designs include the Very High Temperature Reactor, a helium‑cooled, thermal‑neutron system using carbon‑based fuel.
Substantial interest has been generated in advanced reactors over the last few years. This interest is motiva ted by the view that new nuclear power reactors will be needed to provide low carbon generation of electricity and possibly hydrogen to support the future growth in demand for both of these commodities. Some governments feel that substantially different d esigns will be needed to satisfy the desires for public perception, improved safety, proliferation resistance, reduced waste and competitive economics. This has motivated the creation of the Generation IV Nuclear Energy Systems programme in which ten countries have agreed on a framework for international cooperation in research for advanced reactors. Six designs have been selected for continued evaluation with the objective of deployment by 2030. One of these designs is the Very High Temperature Reactor (VHTR), which is a thermal neutron spectrum system with a helium-cooled core utilizing carbon-based fuel.