The long history of promises by accelerator-driven systems

The concept of using accelerator-driven systems (ADS) to transmute high-level radioactive waste has recently regained attention. In such systems, selected radionuclides are converted into other (radio)nuclides through nuclear reactions, particularly fission. ADS couple an external neutron source to a subcritical reactor, offering greater flexibility in fuel composition. Although the idea dates back several decades, no systems have yet been implemented. We argue that the core technological concept remains largely unchanged from earlier proposals and therefore inherits many of the same challenges – notably high costs and engineering complexity. We examine the potential role of radioisotope production as an additional revenue stream beyond electricity generation and waste incineration in more detail. We find that proponents’ claims are unlikely to materialize at scale.