What is a breeder reactor primarily designed to do?

A breeder reactor is primarily designed to convert uranium-238 into plutonium-239. This process is vital because uranium-238 is the most abundant isotope of uranium found in nature, and while it is not fissile by itself, it can be transformed into plutonium-239, which is a fissile material. The significance of this conversion lies in the ability of breeder reactors to produce more fissile material than they consume, effectively extending the fuel supply for nuclear reactors and making use of abundant uranium resources.

The design and operation of breeder reactors are focused on creating a sustainable fuel cycle, where the conversion process can support long-term energy generation. This technology enhances efficiency and can contribute to reducing reliance on limited fissile resources, such as uranium-235. This capability is central to the operational principles of breeder reactors and emphasizes their role in advancing nuclear energy sustainability.