Learn how we are working to transform how we use and produce energy.
Thorium Cycles and Proliferation
Why we share this work for free
RMI is an independent nonprofit working to accelerate the clean energy transition. We publish research like this to inform decision-makers and drive real-world impact.
Our work is supported by philanthropy as well as partnerships, including fee-for-service engagements. This support makes it possible for us to share our independent insights for free.
If you find this work valuable, you can support it anytime.
Get more insights like this
Stay up to date with the latest research, analysis, and tools from RMI by opting in to receive occasional emails below. You’ll get new reports, event invitations, and practical insights to help us all accelerate the clean energy transition.
Loading form...
Your download should start automatically. If it doesn’t, click the download button below.
This work is made possible by philanthropy
RMI is a nonprofit supported by donors and partners. Philanthropy enables us to produce independent research and make resources like this freely available.
If you find this report valuable, please consider supporting our work. You can also explore how we partner with organizations to drive impact.
Jump to Section
This is the first in a two-part exchange between Amory Lovins and A. De Volpi about thorium cycles and nuclear proliferation. In this piece, Lovins connects the use of uranium-233 and nuclear proliferation. He analyzes misconceptions about nuclear fuel cycles that breed fissile uranium-233 from thorium and the differences in the use of thorium and plutonium cycles. Lovins concludes that uranium-233 is an attractive material for making fission bombs; pure thorium cycles would take many decades and much uranium to establish and offer no significant safeguards advantage over plutonium cycles; and while thorium cycles have some potential technical advantages, including flexibility, they cannot provide major savings in nuclear fuel resources compared to simpler ways of saving neutrons and uranium.
About the Authors
Amory Lovins
Cofounder and Chairman EmeritusRelated Insights
Help build the clean energy future. Donate today.
Independent research. Real-world solutions. Supported by donors.
RMI can pursue the highest-impact climate and energy solutions because we’re supported by people who believe change is possible. Every gift helps advance the work needed to make clean energy the default choice worldwide.
For other ways to give to RMI, including checks or gifts of stock, please visit Other Ways to Give.
