India's PHWR Technology: An Engine for Domestic and Global Nuclear Advancements

India has a unique opportunity to play a pivotal role in strengthening the international nuclear supply chain, offering its Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) technology as a beacon for other nations seeking to adopt nuclear energy. While 'Make in India' has seen success across various sectors, the nuclear domain has yet to witness significant traction. India's PHWR technology, however, holds immense potential not only as a cost-effective solution but also as a catalyst for global nuclear growth.

India's Position and Three-Stage Closed Fuel-Cycle Program:

In the late 1960s, India initiated the development of a domestically designed PHWR, driven by the need for self-reliance due to its exclusion from the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and a 1974 trade embargo. The three-stage closed fuel-cycle program underscores India's commitment to reducing reliance on imported uranium and maximizing the use of abundant thorium reserves.

1. First Stage - Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs):

• The first stage involves the use of natural uranium as fuel PHWRs. India has abundant reserves of natural uranium, and PHWRs are well-suited to using this fuel. During the fission process, plutonium-239 is bred as a byproduct in the reactor. This plutonium is a fissile material that can be used as fuel in subsequent stages.

2. Second Stage - Fast Breeder Reactors (FBRs):

• The second stage focuses on the use of FBRs. These reactors use a mix of plutonium-239 and uranium-233 (bred from thorium) as fuel. In this stage, the objective is to breed more fissile material than is consumed. The FBRs play a crucial role in converting thorium into uranium-233 through a process of neutron absorption and subsequent conversion. This stage is important for building up the fissile material inventory needed for the next stage.

3. Third Stage - Thorium Utilization in Advanced Heavy Water Reactors (AHWRs):

• The third stage involves utilizing thorium as the primary fuel in AHWRs. Thorium-232 is abundant in India, and through a series of nuclear reactions, it can be converted into uranium-233, which is a fissile material. The AHWRs are designed to use uranium-233 along with thorium as fuel, completing the closed fuel cycle.

Advantages of India's PHWR Technology for Global Adoption

1. Cost-Effective Construction: India's PHWRs are renowned for their cost-effectiveness in both construction and operation. With matured designs and efficient construction practices, these reactors present an attractive option for countries looking for affordable nuclear energy solutions.

2. Fuel Availability and Security: PHWRs utilize natural uranium as fuel, a more widely available and less expensive option compared to enriched uranium used in some other reactor types. This enhances fuel security for countries with limited access to enriched uranium resources.

3. Thorium Utilization Pathway: India's expertise in PHWR technology provides a valuable pathway for countries with thorium reserves. PHWRs can serve as a stepping stone to a thorium-based nuclear fuel cycle, offering a sustainable and long-term energy solution.

4. Knowledge Transfer and Capacity Building: Collaborating with India on PHWR projects allows for crucial knowledge transfer and capacity building. This is particularly beneficial for countries in the early stages of developing their nuclear energy programs, leveraging India's experience and expertise.

5. Low Proliferation Risk: PHWRs pose a lower risk of nuclear weapons proliferation compared to certain other reactor types. For nations committed to non-proliferation, adopting PHWR technology becomes a strategic choice.

6. Stable and Reliable Power Supply: Known for stable and reliable operation, PHWRs offer a continuous and consistent power supply, crucial for countries seeking to enhance grid stability and reliability.

7. Customizable Design: India's PHWR technology allows for customization based on specific requirements, providing flexibility for other nations to adapt the technology to their unique energy needs and infrastructure.

8. Collaborative Research and Development: Collaboration with India on PHWR projects opens avenues for joint research and development initiatives, accelerating technological advancements and creating a shared pool of knowledge in the global nuclear community.

9. Diplomatic and Economic Ties: Engaging in joint nuclear projects with India strengthens diplomatic ties between nations and provides economic opportunities. Partnerships in the nuclear sector can lead to technology exports, job creation, and economic development

Operational Success at Kakrapar 3

The recent operationalization of the 700-MWe PHWR design at Kakrapar 3 nuclear power plant in Gujarat stands as a significant milestone. This advanced design not only upholds the standardized features of Indian PHWR units but also introduces innovative elements, showcasing India's commitment to pushing the boundaries of nuclear technology. The 700-MWe PHWR design at Kakrapar 3 retains the core attributes of standardized Indian PHWR units, such as two diverse and fast-acting shutdown systems, a double containment of the reactor building, a water-filled calandria vault, an integral calandria-end shield assembly, and zirconium alloy pressure tubes. Additionally, the design incorporates novel features, including partial boiling at the coolant channel outlet, interleaving of primary heat transport system feeders, passive decay heat removal systems, regional over-power protection, a containment spray system, a steel liner on the inner containment wall, and a mobile fuel transfer machine. This amalgamation of established features and cutting-edge innovations reflects India's dedication to advancing nuclear technology while maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency..

Notably, Nuclear Power Corp. of India Ltd. (NPCIL) highlights that the successful commercial operation of Kakrapar 3 showcases "advanced safety features, which are comparable to the best in the world." This accomplishment underscores the design, construction, commissioning, and operation carried out by Indian engineers and scientists, coupled with the domestic supply of components and equipment, serving as a shining example of the principles India’s self-reliance.

To conclude, India's PHWR technology stands as a beacon of self-reliance, innovation, and cost-effective nuclear energy solutions. By actively promoting and showcasing this technology on the global stage, India can not only support other countries in their nuclear endeavors but also strengthen its position as a leader in the international nuclear supply chain. As the world seeks sustainable and clean energy solutions, India's PHWR technology emerges as a reference, illustrating how cost-effectiveness and efficiency can be achieved in nuclear programs worldwide.

The 4th edition of India Nuclear Business Platform (INBP) took place in Mumbai this 10-11 October. The industry meeting featured all they officials and players across the Indian nuclear supply chain. Official event partners of this meeting were India’s Department of Atomic Energy and NTPC. Video recordings and presentations from the conference can be obtained via this link