The European fast breeder reactor program

Fast breeder reactor technology has been developed in Europe for more than 30 years. Collaboration between European countries has played, since 1973, a major role, and important steps on the way to the industrial development of FBRs have been reached. Important efforts need to be made to reach competitiveness and prepare for commercial introduction of FBRs in Europe, but experience gained and progress made show that this objective is achievable in the mid-term. In this respect, EFRUG decided in 1987 on the study of a European Fast Reactor based on a common design. Engineering companies, supported by R and D organizations, are expected to complete conceptual and detailed design within 5 years, allowing a decision to build a plant in 1993