India announced that the 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) has achieved first criticality, marking a significant advancement in the country’s nuclear capabilities. The reactor, designed and built indigenously, is a key component of India’s nuclear power program, aiming to produce more fuel than it consumes. Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the achievement as a defining step in India’s civil nuclear journey, emphasizing the reactor’s potential in utilizing thorium reserves for clean energy generation.
The PFBR’s criticality was attained after meeting safety requirements set by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and undergoing a thorough review of its systems. This milestone is crucial for India’s energy security and technological progress in the nuclear sector. The reactor, utilizing uranium-plutonium mixed oxide fuel, is designed to eventually use thorium-232 for uranium-233 production, aligning with India’s long-term energy goals.
Built by the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR) and commissioned by Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Ltd (BHAVINI), the PFBR incorporates advanced safety features, liquid sodium cooling technology, and a closed fuel cycle for efficient nuclear material recycling. This achievement not only showcases India’s expertise in nuclear technology but also supports the country’s self-reliant energy initiatives.
