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Sign in to searchPrototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) Achieves Criticality
The achievement of criticality by India’s 500 MW Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam marks a major milestone in the country’s nuclear energy programme. Criticality refers to the stage where a self-sustaining nuclear fission chain reaction is established, indicating that the reactor is operationally ready for controlled energy production.
Historically, India’s nuclear strategy has been guided by Dr. Homi Bhabha’s three-stage nuclear programme, designed to utilise limited uranium and abundant thorium reserves. The first stage used Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) to generate plutonium. The second stage—now initiated with PFBR—uses Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs) that not only generate power but also “breed” more fuel than they consume. This paves the way for the third stage, which will use thorium to produce uranium-233, ensuring long-term energy sustainability.
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PFBR achieves criticality at Kalpakkam, marking India's advancement in nuclear energy and breeder reactor technology for long-term fuel sustainability and energy security.
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