Thorium

Just as nuclear power is gaining acceptance the move toward thorium power is coming to the front. There are a number of reasons for this and one of importance is based on thermodynamics. It turns out that when you transfer heat from one substance to another the transfer becomes more efficient at higher temperatures. Current nuclear power plants produce heat at relatively low temperatures of 300 degrees Celsius whereas thorium reactors produce heat at 700 to 900 degrees C. Another important difference is that thorium reactors do not use water and water at high temperatures (300 C) is under pressure and requires large safety factors in case of explosion. This allows thorium reactors to operate in areas where there is water and no dangers associated with high pressure. The most important thing than can be done to move toward nuclear power is to educate the public.