PBS Space Time Season 2019 Episode 20 Thorium and the Future of Nuclear Energy

In the 20th episode of the 2019 season of PBS Space Time, titled "Thorium and the Future of Nuclear Energy," the show explores the possibilities and potential of nuclear energy through the use of thorium reactors. The episode dives into the history of nuclear energy and its present concerns, such as the fear of nuclear accidents and the disposal of nuclear waste.

The host of the show, Matt O'Dowd, begins by explaining the difference between traditional uranium-based nuclear reactors and thorium reactors. Traditional reactors are fueled by uranium which undergoes nuclear fission, while thorium goes through a different process called nuclear transmutation. He also discusses the benefits of thorium, such as its abundance and potential for more efficient and safer energy production.

Next, the show takes a deeper look into the history of nuclear energy, from the discovery of radioactivity to the development of the first atomic bombs during World War II. It also covers the accidents that have occurred with nuclear energy, such as the Three Mile Island accident and the Chernobyl disaster, and how these have impacted people's perception of nuclear energy.

The episode goes on to explain how thorium is different from uranium in terms of safety. Thorium is much less likely to cause a meltdown due to its intrinsic safety mechanisms, as it has a significantly higher melting point and does not need pressurized water for cooling, unlike uranium. It also produces significantly less nuclear waste than uranium-based reactors.

The show also explores the politics surrounding the development and use of nuclear energy. O'Dowd talks about how some countries are investing heavily in nuclear energy, such as China, while other countries have a strong anti-nuclear sentiment, such as Germany, which has plans to phase out nuclear power by 2022.

The episode ends by discussing the potential of thorium and the future of nuclear energy. It highlights the benefits of thorium reactors, including their ability to use existing nuclear waste as fuel and to potentially run for decades without needing to refuel. However, the show also acknowledges that there are still technical, political, and economic challenges that need to be addressed before thorium reactors can become a viable alternative to traditional uranium-based nuclear reactors.

Overall, "Thorium and the Future of Nuclear Energy" is an informative and thought-provoking episode that explores the potential of thorium as a safer and more efficient alternative to traditional uranium-based nuclear reactors. It provides historical context and covers the current concerns surrounding nuclear energy, while also highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of incorporating thorium into our energy mix.