China sets up the world’s first thorium molten salt reactor in Gansu’s Gobi Desert, generating safer, cleaner nuclear power. Full details in Atharva Examwise current news.
China Builds World’s First Thorium Nuclear Reactor: Key Facts | Daily GK Update
China has achieved a historic milestone in the field of nuclear energy. The world’s first Thorium Molten Salt Reactor (TMSR) has been established in the Gobi Desert, Wuwei City, Gansu Province. Compared to conventional uranium reactors, this reactor produces significantly less radioactive waste and is considered much safer.
Project Highlights:
Total Cost: Approximately ₹3,600 crore (INR)
Location: Wuwei, Gansu Province, Gobi Desert, China
Type: Thorium Molten Salt Reactor (TMSR)
Power Output: 2 Megawatts (initial phase)
Future Target: 10 Megawatts by 2030
Lead Scientist: Xu Hongjie
Main Objective: Clean, safe, and long-term nuclear energy production
Features of Thorium Reactors:
Thorium reactors generate much less radioactive waste compared to traditional uranium reactors, resulting in a lower environmental impact.
Thorium is three times more abundant in the Earth’s crust than uranium, making it a more accessible and cost-effective option.
Due to molten salt technology, these reactors do not require water, making them suitable for desert regions.
The risk of meltdown is almost negligible, greatly enhancing safety standards.
Project Development and Future Plans
China began constructing the 2MW prototype reactor in 2018, completing it in August 2021.
In April 2025, Chinese scientists successfully performed fuel reloading without shutting down the reactor-a major technical achievement.
The goal is to reach 10MW by 2030, with future plans to expand up to 373MW.
Key Points to Remember for Exams
China has set up the world’s first thorium-based nuclear reactor (TMSR) in the Gobi Desert, Gansu.
The reactor currently generates 2 megawatts of electricity.
Thorium reactors produce less radioactive waste and offer greater safety.
China aims to achieve 10MW power generation by 2030.
Thorium is more abundant than uranium in the Earth’s crust.
This technology could open new avenues for energy security for countries like India.
Internal Links:
Current Affairs March 2025 – Atharva Examwise
Daily GK Update – Atharva Examwise
External Links:
The Indian Express – Thorium in India’s Nuclear Future
South China Morning Post – China’s Thorium Reactor Breakthrough
Why this matters for exams
This news is highly relevant for Current Affairs March 2025, daily GK update, and competitive exam news.
Questions related to science & technology, environment, and energy security are frequently asked in UPSC, SSC, Banking, and other competitive exams.
Facts about thorium reactors, their safety, and their relevance for future energy needs make this a crucial topic for upcoming exams.
Conclusion:
China’s achievement could bring a major shift in the global energy landscape. For countries like India, which have vast thorium reserves, this technology could become a strong option for future energy security. Thus, this topic is especially important for competitive exam aspirants.
