Fast Neutron Pulsed Reactor 1964

Directed by Feliks Sobolev

The Pulsed Fast Reactor (PFR) is designed to study the interaction of neutrons with atomic nuclei. Using a neutron beam, one can investigate nuclear reactions, nuclear excitation, and structure, i.e., the properties of various substances, addressing not only purely scientific but also some applied tasks. The main advantage of this type of reactor is the ability to incorporate materials such as uranium-238 and thorium-232 into the fuel cycle. This significantly expands the fuel base of nuclear energy. Additionally, these reactors allow for the relatively safe disposal of the most active and long-lived isotopes in spent nuclear fuel, fundamentally reducing the period of its biological hazard.