Reactor problems

Published on 27/09/2012 00:00

Anthony Harrington describes the advantages of a nuclear reactor fuelled by thorium (“Why science is warming to the Cold War reject”, Energy Ecosse, 25 September).

Unfortunately, there is a serious problem with the use of molten thorium salts. It is not practicable to remove the heat directly from such a reactor by means of high-pressure water as the tube failure results in explosive reactions. This is why inert helium is used as the exchange medium. However, helium is not plentiful and widespread use of it would be problematic.

Steuart CampbeLl

Dovecot Loan

Edinburgh