In the early days of nuclear power uranium was thought to be a critically rare mineral. Nuclear engineers sought to solve this problem with a special type of reactor that produced more fissile material than they consume. Nick Touran joins me to discuss and explore the long term sustainability of nuclear power.

0:00 Introduction: Nuclear Historian Nick Touran Returns to Decouple
0:48 The History of Breeder Reactors: From Uranium Scarcity to Abundance
3:13 How Breeder Reactors Work: Harnessing the Power of Uranium238 & Thorium
6:56 Minimizing Nuclear Waste: Breeder Reactors and the Circular Economy
11:06 The Challenges of Reprocessing Spent Nuclear Fuel: Proliferation Concerns & Economic Barriers
16:01 The Rise & Fall of Breeder Reactor Programs: From Clinch River to Superphénix
22:03 Technical Hurdles & Operational Experience: Sodium Fast Reactors & Beyond
33:35 The Long Road to Commercial Viability: Lessons from Candu & Advanced Reactors
42:05 Innovation & Investment: Who Will Fund the Future of Breeder Reactors?
50:02 The Future of Breeder Reactors: Sustainability, Economics & Global Energy Security
54:32 Fueling a Nuclear Future: Insights from the NetZero Nuclear Summit
57:01 Conclusion: The Importance of Breeder Reactor Development

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