A fast breeder reactor (FBR) gets its name from two features. Second, it uses fast neutrons — ones that haven’t been slowed — to initiate nuclear fission. After spending around $10 billion, the reactor became critical in 1985 and commercial in 1986. Superphénix also spent 25 months on technical fixes and didn’t run for 66 months for political reasons. At this time, the spot price of uranium also dropped from $40 a pound to $15, wiping out its rationale for saving uranium.

Source: The Hindu April 12, 2026 16:38 UTC