Small modular reactors (SMRs) for producing nuclear energy: An introduction

Abstract Just what are small modular reactors (SMRs)? This question is first answered simply along with a brief history of the evolution of this class of reactors. Subsequent sections detail the incentives and challenges to achieving successful commercial deployments, the different types of SMRs based on coolants employed, and, finally, the current status and future trends in the worldwide effort to develop and deploy this reactor type.