The HTR programme in France

Work on HTRs has been proceeding at a significant level in France since the beginning of the seventies and international agreements have been signed in this connection, notably with General Atomic. Efforts are being directed mainly towards steam-cycle reactors of the General Atomic type. A bid to supply plant of this type has been prepared for the Swiss company Energie de l'ouest-suisse, and much associated research and development work is being undertaken. While it is not possible to lay down a definite policy at the moment, the potential advantages to be gained from other HTR applications (gas turbines and industrial heat production) are such that research and development effort is being directed towards all fields in which the results obtained may be applicable to more than one type of system; this is particularly the case with the fuel cycle. The difficulties currently being encountered in the development of HTRs do not detract in the least from their future potential. Co-operation programmes of the kind already engaged in by the parties concerned are a great asset in accelerating the construction of the first reactors. (author)