Аңдатпа
This review examines current research and development directions in thorium-based nuclear fuel cycles and reactor systems, including innovative and modular reactor concepts being investigated in several nuclear-producing countries. The analysis considers the feasibility of integrating thorium-containing fuels into both existing and emerging reactor technologies. Particular attention is paid to the potential use of thorium-based fuels in pressurized water reactors (PWRs) as transitional platforms that can enable gradual introduction in thorium without requiring immediate deployment of entirely new reactor architectures. This study synthesizes representative quantitative results reported in the recent literature, including neutronic performance metrics, conversion ratio estimates, and fuel behavior characteristics of mixed Th–U oxide fuels under typical operating conditions. These results are evaluated together with broader system-level considerations, such as fuel cycle closure potential, materials performance, and technology readiness across different reactor classes. A comparative assessment of light water reactors (LWRs), heavy water reactors (HWRs), and molten salt reactors (MSRs) demonstrates that each platform offers distinct advantages and limitations for thorium deployment. While LWR systems provide the most realistic near-term pathway for partial thorium introduction within the existing nuclear infrastructure, HWR and MSR concepts offer more favorable conditions for efficient thorium utilization and potential Th–U fuel cycle closure. These reactor classes are currently being explored within national research and development programs focused on advanced and modular nuclear technologies. By integrating neutronic analysis, materials considerations, fuel cycle strategies, and techno-economic factors, this review provides a system-level perspective on the research and development of innovative thorium reactor concepts and outlines realistic pathways for their gradual implementation in evolving nuclear energy systems.