Clean Core Counters BARC Concerns Over Thorium Nuclear Fuel

Chicago-based Clean Core Thorium Energy has formally challenged safety concerns raised by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre regarding its thorium-based nuclear fuel, ANEEL. In a paper published in the journal Nuclear Engineering and Design, researchers from Clean Core, along with partners from MIT and other organizations, argued that the fuel can be integrated into existing Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors without the extensive design changes that BARC previously suggested were necessary. The company asserts that the fuel, which blends thorium with high-assay low-enriched uranium, serves as a plug-and-play solution for India's nuclear fleet.

The primary point of contention involves reactor safety parameters, particularly regarding coolant void reactivity and shutdown systems. While BARC scientists previously estimated that ANEEL fuel could necessitate a 26% redesign of reactor shutdown systems, the Clean Core team calculates a smaller reduction of 16%, maintaining that current safety margins remain sufficient. Furthermore, the company claims that ANEEL fuel provides greater stability in the event of a loss-of-coolant accident, stating that it reduces power surges compared to standard uranium fuel bundles due to its heterogeneous design.

This debate holds significant implications for India’s nuclear energy policy, as state-owned NTPC Ltd and Clean Core have already formed a partnership to explore deploying this technology. While the fuel recently completed high burnup irradiation tests at the Idaho National Laboratory, it remains in the pre-licensing and final testing phase. Clean Core is currently moving toward commercial reality, with planned demonstration irradiation bundles to be manufactured in Canada. The ongoing discussion between the company and BARC will be critical in determining whether this thorium-based technology gains regulatory approval for large-scale use in India’s nuclear reactors.