China and Russia join Generation-IV forum

[Nuclear.Ru, 6 December] China and Russia have signed the charter of the Generation-IV International Forum (GIF), bringing the number of members of the organization to 13. In December 2002, the GIF published a “technology roadmap” for six design concepts for so-called fourth-generation nuclear reactors. Most of the designs are based on fast-neutron reactors and in addition to generating electricity would also be capable of other functions, such as producing hydrogen and desalinating seawater. The GIF aims to develop one or more advanced systems that will form the basis of the world's nuclear energy programme beginning around 2030.