Generation IV Nuclear Reactors

Generation IV nuclear reactors encompass six advanced designs: gas-cooled fast reactors (GFR), very-high-temperature reactors (VHTR), sodium-cooled fast reactors (SFR), lead-cooled fast reactors (LFR), molten salt reactors (MSR), and supercritical-water-cooled reactors (SCWR). These designs aim for improved safety, efficiency, fuel utilization, and waste transmutation. Research and experiments are underway; commercial deployment remains in development.

Nuclear power faces public acceptance, cost, and waste challenges. Gen IV designs promise passive safety, reduced waste, and higher temperature for process heat. Significant challenges include licensing, construction cost, and timescale. Research continues into materials, fuel cycles, and pilot plants. Gen IV reactors represent a long-term option for decarbonized baseload power.