Nuclear security

Is the future of nuclear power molten SALT? ‘Safer’ thorium reactor trials carried out for the first time for 40 years

Researchers in the Netherlands have begun nuclear fission tests using thorium salts – a method said to be far cleaner and safer than uranium-based systems.

Dutch firm NRG has revealed a plan to test small scale reactors that use molten salt as fission fuel, marking the first time scientists have embarked on such experiments since the 1970s.

Experts say thorium is more difficult to weaponize compared to uranium, and could even make for ‘meltdown-proof’ reactors.