China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) held a groundbreaking ceremony for the demonstrative fast neutron reactor project in Xiapu county, Fujian province on Dec 29.

The fast neutron reactor project has been recognized as China’s major scientific and technological nuclear energy program, which is of much significance for the closed cycle of nuclear fuel, promoting the sustainable development of China’s nuclear energy and boosting the local economy, claimed CNNC Chairman Wang Shoujun at the inauguration ceremony.

The fast neutron reactor has become the main reactor category for the fourth generation advanced nuclear energy system. It can increase the utilization rate of natural uranium resources from the current 1 percent to above 60 percent.