Gas-Cooled Reactor
A Gas-Cooled Reactor (GCR) is a type of nuclear reactor that uses gas, typically carbon dioxide or helium, as a coolant to transfer heat away from the reactor core. This design allows for higher operating temperatures, which can improve the efficiency of electricity generation. GCRs are known for their ability to use natural uranium as fuel, making them distinct from other reactor types that require enriched uranium.
The most common type of GCR is the Magnox reactor, which was developed in the United Kingdom. GCRs are generally considered to have a lower risk of overheating compared to water-cooled reactors, as the gas coolant does not boil under normal operating conditions. This feature contributes to their safety profile in nuclear energy production.