CANDU: Difference between revisions
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CANDU is an acronym for "'''CAN'''ada '''D'''euterium '''U'''ranium". | CANDU is an acronym for "'''CAN'''ada '''D'''euterium '''U'''ranium". | ||
This design is relatively safe from a | This design is relatively safe from a nonproliferation standpoint, as it produces little [[plutonium]], and that plutonium is rich in <sup>240</sup>Pu, an isotope highly undesirable for bombs. | ||
Since the fuel and heating elements are modular, the reactor can be refuelled without completely shutting it down. | Since the fuel and heating elements are modular, the reactor can be refuelled without completely shutting it down. | ||
Revision as of 15:55, 22 March 2024
The CANDU power reactor is a Pressurized Water Reactor using heavy water, (i.e., pressurized heavy water reactor (PHWR)), initially developed in the late 1950's in Canada. CANDU is an acronym for "CANada Deuterium Uranium".
This design is relatively safe from a nonproliferation standpoint, as it produces little plutonium, and that plutonium is rich in 240Pu, an isotope highly undesirable for bombs.
Since the fuel and heating elements are modular, the reactor can be refuelled without completely shutting it down.