India's prototype fast breeder reactor in Tamil Nadu goes critical
India
India's Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) in Tamil Nadu has officially gone critical, meaning it can now run its own nuclear chain reaction.
This is a big step for India's clean energy plans, as the PFBR is designed to stretch limited uranium supplies and help the country rely less on fossil fuels.
PFBR uses plutonium and sodium coolant
The PFBR uses plutonium fuel and is designed to breed more fissile material than it consumes, thanks to its unique design with liquid sodium coolant.
Plus, India holds about one-quarter of the world's thorium reserves, which these reactors can eventually turn into even more nuclear fuel.
With goals to boost nuclear power by 2047 and hit net zero emissions by 2070, this reactor could help power India for centuries.