Challenges of Molten Salt Reactors Compared to Pressurized Water Reactors

In molten salt reactors, the radioactivity levels are significantly higher than in pressurized water reactors, making maintenance and repairs more challenging. For instance, while a pump failure in a pressurized water reactor can be quickly addressed because the induced radiation dissipates after a few seconds, the radioactivity in molten salt reactors remains dangerously high, preventing immediate access even after shut down. This extreme radioactivity requires remote maintenance, often necessitating robotic systems to handle repairs safely. Manufacturers have to design intricate systems to manage these challenges effectively, adding complexity to the operational framework.