One of the biggest challenges of thorium-based nuclear energy is the lack of investment and research. Because thorium has been suppressed as an energy source, there has been limited research and development of thorium-based nuclear technologies.

Another challenge is the technical complexity of using thorium as a nuclear fuel. While thorium has several advantages over uranium, it also presents technical challenges, such as the need for specialized reactor designs and the difficulty of extracting and purifying thorium.

Additionally, there are political and economic factors that have contributed to the suppression of thorium-based nuclear energy. The dominance of uranium-based nuclear energy in the industry and the influence of powerful economic and political interests have hindered the development of thorium-based nuclear energy.

Despite these challenges, there are organizations and research groups around the world working to develop viable thorium-based nuclear technologies. These efforts include projects such as the Indian thorium-based Advanced Heavy Water Reactor (AHWR) and the US-based ThorCon power plant.

In conclusion, thorium-based nuclear energy has several advantages over other nuclear energy sources, but it has been suppressed and faces significant challenges. By investing in research and development of thorium-based nuclear technologies and addressing the political and economic factors that have hindered its development, we can work towards a more sustainable and secure energy future.

Works cited:

Energy.gov. “Thorium-Based Nuclear Power.” US Department of Energy, 2021.
Thorium Energy World. “What Are the Challenges for Thorium Energy?” TEW, 2021.