A prototype fast-breeder nuclearreactor in Japan had to be shut downdue to sodium leakage last December. This accident has recentlyraised fundamental questions aboutJapan's nuclear power policy, as thegovernment-run Atomic EnergyCommission has begun reviewing thecountry's fast-breeder developmentplan.
The fast-breeder reactor 'Monju',named after a Buddhist goddess,leaked two tonnes of sodium fromone of the plant's secondary coolingsystem. The leak was caused within acooling pipe. Experts say that it will take several years for 'Monju' toresume its operation.
'Monju' is a key project in theJapanese nuclear power policy -regarded as a potential solution toJapan's energy problems.
Started in 1985, the reactorreached self-sustaining condition inApril 1994, and began generatingpower in August 1995. 'Monju' isdesigned to generate 280 MW ofelectricity .
Sodium as cooling material has been found to be unsafe fornuclear reactors. Many European countries as well haveabandoned plans to developfast-breeder reactors becauseof high cost and the dangerinvolved.
Although the Japanesegovernment insisted that thereactor was safe, Japanesepower companies are wary of localanti-nuclear sentiments, whichbecame stronger after the accidentoccurred.