3 - Prototype reactor Monju

Abstract

The prototype fast breeder reactor “Monju” is a loop-type sodium-cooled fast neutron reactor with an electric power of 300MW developed in Japan. The initial criticality was achieved in 1994, and the reactor power reached 40% of the rated power in 1995. After a long-term shutdown period, the operation of Monju restarted in 2010. In 2016, Monju was transferred to decommissioning stage without achieving the full power operation. This chapter summarizes design features of Monju, R&D activities to establish the design, experiences in operation and maintenance, and technological achievements through the commissioning.