What are Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)?

About Small Modular Reactors (SMRs):

• They are advanced nuclear reactors that have a power capacity of up to 300 MW(e) per unit, which is about one-third of the generating capacity of traditional nuclear power reactors. 
• SMRs, which can produce a large amount of low-carbon electricity, are:
  • Small – physically a fraction of the size of a conventional nuclear power reactor.
  • Modular – making it possible for systems and components to be factory-assembled and transported as a unit to a location for installation.
  • Reactors – harnessing nuclear fission to generate heat to produce energy.
• Advantages:
  • Relatively small physical footprints;
  • Reduced capital investment;
  • Can be factory-built unlike the conventional nuclear reactors that are built on–site;
  • Ability to be sited in locations not possible for larger nuclear plants;
  • Provisions for incremental power additions;
  • It also offer distinct safeguards, security and nonproliferation advantages.
• They can be used for power generation, process heat, desalination, or other industrial uses. 
• SMRs can offer a carbon free, clean energy alternative to fossil fuels.

 

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Q1) What is Nuclear Fission?

Fission occurs when a neutron slams into a larger atom, forcing it to excite and split into two smaller atoms—also known as fission products. Additional neutrons are also released that can initiate a chain reaction. When each atom splits, a tremendous amount of energy is released.

Source: India working on small modular reactors: Jitendra Singh