Use of Metallic Thorium for LWBRs and LWRs

The potential of metallic thorium as a reactor fuel has been examined. Two particular cases were taken into consideration: a light water breeder reactor (LWR) and a pressurized water reactor (PWR). The comparison with a standard LWBR (ThO₂) and with a standard PWR (UO₂) points out the potential benefits of the proposed concepts from the economic point of view, as well as from that of conserving natural resources.