The development of nuclear technology globally: from the discovery of radioactivity to contemporary and future reactor concepts

Nuclear power is considered one of the alternative energy sources. Although 74 years have passed since the launch of the first Experimental Breeder Reactor (EBR-1) in Idaho, USA, nuclear power remains irreplaceable. Despite some nuclear disasters (Three Mile Island 1979, Chernobyl 1986 or Fukushima 2011), temporarily slowing the pace of nuclear energy development, countries continue to plan investments in this energy sector. The aim of this study is to review the development of nuclear technologies, particularly in the energy sector, from the discovery of uranium radiation through the Manhattan Project and the launch of the first commercial nuclear power plant, and to the future reactors (Generation IV). This paper is important for scientists, experts from the energy industry, and local government officials, because it can help systematise knowledge in this area. It presents the directions and trends in the development of nuclear energy, including the construction of nuclear fuel and reactor cores. These analyses are helpful in selecting nuclear technology in research projects, production plants and energy companies.