"Currently, Russia is the only country in the world able to introduce fast neutron reactors into the nuclear power industry. This is because only in Russia have studies of all stages of BN technologies been completed… I must mention the initiative by Russian nuclear experts to develop leading fast breeder reactors under a project named Proryv [Breakthrough]. The main aim of the next stage is to create the pilot and demonstration reactor [called] BREST-300. If it works successfully, it will give us an additional opportunity to develop components of fast breeder reactors," Vasiliev told RIA Novosti in an interview.
Fast breeders use a liquid metal heat-transfer agent as a coolant. Fast neutron reactors significantly minimize the radioactive waste produced and expand the range of fuel used at nuclear power plants.
Only a few countries possess fast neutron reactor technology, with Russia leading in this field. Such reactors are believed to be able to significantly improve the safety of the nuclear power industry as well as making it more competitive.
In 2015, Russia launched a controlled nuclear fission at Beloyarsk NPP using a BN-800 fast breeder reactor.
