Development potential for thermal reactors and their fuel cycles

The advantages of molten salt reactors (MSRs) for power production are very briefly described in this paper. The MSRs considered are those with on-line fuel processing, external cooling, and fluoride salt separation. Characteristics noted include lack of meltdown potential, small radioactive source terms, and complete burnup of fissile material. The burnup capability of MSRs would allow them to be used to dispose of plutonium while producing energy. 8 refs.