Development of fast breeder reactor in Japan

It is believed that the nuclear fission energy with fast breeder reactors is the only substitute to oil, which can be utilized as a large energy source in this century and many centuries thereafter. Therefore the intensified technical development for its practical use is in progress in advanced industrial countries in the world. In Japan which lacks of energy resources, the development of fast breeder reactors is absolutely necessary, and it is promoted powerfully as a national project since 1967. As for the prototype reactors, Phenix in France, PFR in Great Britain, and BN-350 in Soviet Union are in operation, SNR 300 in FRG and BN-600 in Soviet Union are under construction, and CRBR in U.S. is being prepared. On the other hand, as for the demonstration reactors, Superphenix in France and CFR in Great Britain are in design stage. In Japan, the experimental reactor Joyo of 100 MW thermal output was completed, and the functional test is carried out now. The prototype reactor Monju is the power-generating reactor of 300 MWe, and its coordinating design is in progress now. In case of Monju, sufficient consideration was given especially to the aseismatic design. the researches on reactor physics, structural equipments, measurement and control, sodium technology, fuel materials, safety and steam generators are carried out to support the project. (Kako, I.)