breeder-reactor

A scientist monitors the breeder-reactor in the research facility.

Definition

Noun: A breeder-reactor is a type of nuclear reactor that generates more fissile material (such as plutonium) than it consumes, through a process called breeding. This is achieved by using a fertile material (e.g., uranium-238) that absorbs neutrons to become a fissile isotope (e.g., plutonium-239), allowing the reactor to produce fuel while generating energy.

Usage Examples

• (A reactor that creates additional fissile material.)
• (A reactor that breeds fuel for other reactors.)

Advanced Usage

• "Fast breeder-reactor": A specific type of breeder-reactor that uses fast neutrons (without a moderator) to breed plutonium from uranium-238.

  • The fast breeder-reactor operates at high temperatures and uses liquid sodium as a coolant. (A subtype of breeder-reactor with distinct operational features.)

• "Breeder-reactor core": The central part of the reactor where the breeding process occurs.

  • The breeder-reactor core contains a mixture of fissile and fertile materials. (The region where fuel is produced.)

Variants and Related Words

• Breeder (n): A short form of "breeder-reactor," referring to any reactor that produces more fissile material than it consumes.

  • The breeder is a key component of a closed nuclear fuel cycle. (A reactor that breeds fuel.)

• Reactor (n): A general term for a device that initiates and controls a nuclear chain reaction.

  • A breeder-reactor is a specialized type of reactor. (A broader category of nuclear devices.)

Synonyms

• Fast reactor: A reactor using fast neutrons, often synonymous with breeder-reactor in certain contexts.
• Breeding reactor: Another term for a breeder-reactor, emphasizing the breeding process.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "Breed your own fuel": An idiomatic expression referring to the self-sustaining nature of a breeder-reactor.

  • In a breeder-reactor, you can breed your own fuel from abundant uranium-238. (The reactor creates its own fuel supply.)

• "Closed fuel cycle": A system where spent nuclear fuel is reprocessed, often involving breeder-reactors.

  • A breeder-reactor enables a closed fuel cycle by converting waste into usable fuel. (A cycle that reuses nuclear materials.)