A New Type of Power Generation
As referenced by Bill Gates
Traveling Wave Reactor Technology uses a new method of atomic power generation that burns used and spend nuclear fuel to generate electricity while recycling waste products. Also known as "breed burn" reactors, traveling wave systems were first proposed in 1958 and later promoted by scientists including Edward Teller, Hugo van Dam, and Hiroshi Sekimoto. Theoretically, these reactors can burn for 50 to 100 years without refueling. Without the need for chemical reprocessing, there is the potential for thousands of years of clean energy generation without the production of carbon dioxide, while simultaneously reducing the current amount of nuclear waste.
Obviously, there are several hurdles to overcome before traveling wave technology can come to fruition. Even though the process has been simulated in supercomputers, it is still necessary to build reactor walls that can handle the damage from the excess neutron generation during this process. Systems have to be created that are safe and feasible for many applications.
Further advantages of traveling wave reactors include the ability to use spent fuel from light water reactors as well as depleted uranium, thorium, and natural uranium sources. Among its proponents are Bill Gates, who recommends it as a potential "energy miracle" that could generate cheap power worldwide with minimal impact on the environment.
Notes and Special Information
Special note: This site is for information only. Do not attempt to build an atomic reactor at home. In the wake of the spent fuel fire at Fukushima, people may be looking to traveling wave reactors as a way of generating power while disposing of this hazardous waste that is stored at most reactors in the world.