Special sessions on breeding. 3 - panel on the role of breeders

The conclusions of the two earlier panels on uranium availability and energy resources were summarized and it was noted that, if the O.E.C.D. energy programme included LWRs only, there would be a uranium shortage before the year 2000. The introduction of the FBR was therefore needed at an early stage. The panel discussed various aspects of the performance of breeders, such as plutonium inventory and doubling time. Technical and organizational problems of a breeder programme were also considered. In the concluding summary by the Chairman, Moderator and Panel there was a consensus on the need for the introduction of the fast breeder power reactor by 1985 to 90 and also for alternative breeders (such as the gas-cooled breeder reactor and molten salt reactor). World wide cooperation would be required to achieve this early result and also to perform the parallel developments in Pu fuel reprocessing, reactor safety, storage and shipping of plutonium, and in plant component reliability. A strong effort to achieve public acceptance was essential together with early standardization in safety and siting principles. (U.K.)