China recently announced the discovery of a large thorium deposit in Bayan Obo, Inner Mongolia, estimated to be 1 million tons. If used in thorium nuclear reactors, specifically molten salt nuclear reactors (MSRs), this resource is said to be enough to supply energy to China for 60,000 years. So, what should you know about it?
For your information, Thorium is considered a safer and more efficient alternative to uranium, with higher energy-producing potential and lower radioactive waste. Additionally, the risk of a nuclear explosion or accident is much lower than with uranium. In fact, it is a clean energy source because it does not produce carbon directly, making it more environmentally friendly.
Since 2021, China has been testing its first thorium reactor in the Gobi Desert and plans to build a larger demonstration reactor by 2029 or 2030. The discovery could help China reduce its reliance on coal and uranium imports, thus strengthening its position as a global energy power. However, major challenges include high extraction costs and the risk of nuclear proliferation, as thorium can produce uranium-233, which could potentially be used in nuclear weapons.
If successful, thorium could be a major game-changer in the world's energy landscape, making China a leader in alternative nuclear technology.
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