How Many Heavy Water Plants in India?

Heavy water is a form of water that contains a higher proportion of the hydrogen isotope deuterium, which makes it useful in various industrial applications. In India, heavy water is produced primarily for use in nuclear power plants. So, how many heavy water plants does India have? Let's find out.

The History of Heavy Water Production in India

India's journey towards becoming a heavy water-producing country began in the early 1950s when it established the Atomic Energy Establishment Trombay (AEET) in Mumbai. The country's first heavy water plant was commissioned in 1962 at Nangal, Punjab, and was later followed by plants at Thal, Maharashtra, and Kota, Rajasthan. Since then, India has established multiple heavy water plants across the country to meet the increasing demand for heavy water.

The Number of Heavy Water Plants in India

As of 2021, there are a total of nine heavy water plants in India. These plants are spread across the country in locations such as:

- Nangal, Punjab

- Thal, Maharashtra

- Hazira, Gujarat

- Kota, Rajasthan

- Baroda, Gujarat

- Talcher, Odisha

- Manuguru, Telangana

- Tuticorin, Tamil Nadu

- Ramagundam, Telangana

Each plant has its unique production capacity, with some producing as much as 100 tonnes of heavy water per year. Overall, the total installed production capacity of these plants is around 600 tonnes per year. These plants are heavily regulated by the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) to ensure their safety and prevent any accidents.

The Importance of Heavy Water in India

Heavy water has significant importance for India's nuclear power program. In India, heavy water is primarily used as a moderator and coolant in Pressurized Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs), which are the backbone of the country's nuclear power program. India's heavy water production capacity is also an essential factor in determining the growth of its nuclear power program. Besides nuclear power, heavy water is also used in industries such as pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and fiber optics.

Conclusion

In summary, India currently has nine heavy water plants spread across the country. These plants are essential for the growth of India's nuclear power program and play a crucial role in various industrial applications. With increasing demand for nuclear power, India's heavy water production capacity is expected to grow further in the coming years.