Article by Jeremiah Josey, founder of The Thorium Network. Dated 13 December 2025
The website whatisnuclear.com/thorium-myths.html presents a series of arguments that attempts to cast doubt on the viability and advantages of Thorium-based Fission technology. We won’t dwell on the psychological tactics used—such as answering a different question to the headline “myth” or relying on technical jargon to create an aura of authority. They’re unnecessary distractions. And we don’t need to. Recent developments, particularly in China, have decisively demonstrated that the supposed technical hurdles previously cited are not only surmountable but are actively being overcome. China’s progress in Thorium Liquid Fission Burner (LFTB) technology reveals a future where energy independence is not just a goal, but a reality that will reshape global energy dynamics.
Addressing the “Myths” with Chinese Achievements
- Myth #1: Thorium Burners were cancelled due to economics, not weapons.
China’s Thorium Fission programme, launched in 2011 by the Chinese Academy of Sciences, has shown that with sustained investment and state support, economic barriers can be surpassed. The country has not only constructed a complete industrial supply chain for Thorium Fission machines but has also achieved the world’s first conversion of Thorium into uranium-233 within a their LFTB called “TMSR-LF1”. This achievement marks a pivotal step toward self-sustaining Fission cycles, driven by strategic energy security rather than mere economics. Link - Myth #2: Thorium Burners never need enrichment.
While initial fissile material is required to start the process, China’s TMSR-LF1 machine has successfully bred uranium-233 from Thorium, proving that self-sustaining cycles are achievable. This milestone is a major leap toward reducing dependence on enriched uranium, making Thorium Liquid Fission Burners a cornerstone of China’s long-term energy strategy. Link - Myth #3: Thorium Burners cannot make bombs.
The claim that Thorium Burners could be used to produce weapons-grade material is categorically false. The process of separating protactinium-233 from the fuel solution is technically complex, highly detectable, and practically impossible to achieve covertly. Moreover, the presence of uranium-232 and its intense gamma radiation makes handling and weaponisation not only hazardous but effectively unfeasible. China’s approach to Thorium Fission prioritises civilian energy and employs strict safeguards, ensuring that weaponisation is not a realistic concern. Link - Myth #4: Thorium is more abundant, but that’s not important.
China’s discovery of over 1 million tons of Thorium and the mapping of 233 Thorium-rich zones highlight its strategic significance for energy security. For a country with limited uranium, Thorium’s abundance is not just important—it is essential. China’s road map targets commercial deployment by 2029, aiming to secure energy independence for hundreds of thousands of years. This will dramatically reduce China’s reliance on fossil fuels and lead to a significant decline in global demand for coal and oil. Link - Myth #5: Thorium Burners don’t uniquely make safer waste.
China’s TMSR produces far fewer long-lived transuranic elements, and its waste decays much faster than that of conventional Fission machines. The technical capability for online fission product removal and passive safety is being proven in real-world operation, making Thorium Liquid Fission Burners a leader in reducing Fission waste hazards. Link - Myth #6: Thorium Burners and molten salt machines are the same thing.
China’s programme combines both, but the advances in metallurgy and materials—such as the development of specialised alloys for molten salt environments—are critical. The United States historically restricted sales of Hasteloy N, a key material for liquid fission machines, to control technology spread. China has now overcome this by developing its own high-performance alloys, supported by Australia ensuring supply chain independence and technological leadership. Link
China’s Energy Independence and Global Impact
China’s Thorium Fission programme is not just about technological advancement; it is about energy independence for hundreds of thousands of years. The end of fossil fuels for China is in sight, and considering the country’s massive energy consumption, this will lead to a dramatic decline in global demand for coal and oil. China’s progress in Liquid Fission Thorium Burner technology is setting a new benchmark for advanced energy solutions worldwide, with the potential to transform global energy markets and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Link
Australia’s Role in Supporting China
Australia has played a crucial role in supporting China’s Thorium Fission ambitions. Under the leadership of Professor Adi Paterson, Australia has become a key partner in the development and supply of Thorium and advanced materials for Liquid Fission Machines. This collaboration not only strengthens bilateral relations but also positions Australia as a vital contributor to the global shift toward sustainable energy solutions. Link
China’s achievements in Thorium Fission Burner technology have decisively refuted the notion that Thorium-based Fission is impractical or hindered by insurmountable technical challenges. The technical hurdles cited by critics globally are being overcome, and China’s progress is setting a new benchmark for advanced energy solutions worldwide. The future of energy is not just about technological innovation but about strategic independence and global sustainability. Link
References
- China Achieves Thorium-uranium Nuclear Fuel Conversion: https://english.cas.cn/newsroom/cas_media/202511/t20251104_1095922.shtml
- A Crib Sheet for Journalists and Students of Thorium: https://thethorium.network/a-crib-sheet-for-journalists-of-thorium/
- China’s Thorium Energy Revolution: Clean Power 2025: https://discoveryalert.com.au/china-thorium-energy-revolution-2025-limitless-breakthrough/
- China’s Thorium Breakthrough Could Power Ships for Ten Years on a Single Charge: https://www.thinkchina.sg/technology/chinas-thorium-breakthrough-could-power-ships-ten-years-single-charge
- China Reaches Energy Independence Milestone by Breeding Uranium from Thorium: https://sightlineu3o8.com/2025/11/china-reaches-energy-independence-milestone-by-breeding-uranium-from-thorium/
- Chinese Molten Salt Reactor Achieves Conversion of Thorium-Uranium Fuel: https://www.world-nuclear-news.org/articles/chinese-msr-achieves-conversion-of-thorium-uranium-fuel
- China Becomes First to Transmute Thorium into Uranium for Fission: https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202511/05/WS690aa6e3a310f215074b9062.html
- China Scores Big in Nuclear Energy Tech: https://www.chinadailyhk.com/hk/article/623540
- China’s Thorium Molten Salt Reactor: Revolutionizing Nuclear Energy: https://discoveryalert.com.au/china-thorium-reactor-innovation-2025/
Debunking this article: https://whatisnuclear.com/thorium-myths.html
Tags
#China #LiquidFissionThoriumBurners #LFTB #Thorium #Fission
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