Utilization of reprocessed uranium in Indian reactors

The closed fuel cycle option with the reprocessing and recycling of uranium and plutonium allows better utilisation of the uranium resources. This fact is getting greater significance in the context of India's nuclear power programme due to its limited uranium and vast thorium resources. The recycling of uranium in thermal reactors has been driven by two factors: Firstly, it does not call for significant changes in the thermal reactor fuel cycle facilities. Secondly, it will not affect the recycling in fast reactors in the future. This paper highlights India's perception about uranium recycling, its experience, and its future programmes. (author)