Innovation rss

Tests begin on Framatome accident-tolerant fuel

Uranium and Fuel

18 June 2018

ATR_test_loading_(INL)-48Framatome's accident-tolerant fuel is now being tested in the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at Idaho National Laboratory, the US Department of Energy has announced. The fuel is being developed through a US Department of Energy programme which aims to commercialise ATF by 2025.

First yellowcake from seawater for US team

Uranium and Fuel

14 June 2018

PNNL_seawater_yellowcake_(LCW)-48Researchers have successfully used acrylic fibres to extract uranium from seawater in a trial conducted at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. The team say the technology, which uses inexpensive material, could be competitive with the costs of land-based uranium mining.

IAEA launches challenge on materials for fusion

New Nuclear

11 June 2018

The International Atomic Energy Agency has launched a competition to find "innovative ways to visualise, analyse and explore" simulations of different materials that can be used to build fusion reactors. Such materials would subject to extremely high temperatures and energetic particles.

IAEA tool to help roadmap nuclear programmes

Nuclear Policies

15 June 2018

A new tool to help national authorities make strategic decisions about the development of nuclear power has been developed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The Roadmaps tool can also be used to identify how countries can benefit from innovations in nuclear technology and infrastructure, both nationally and through cooperation with other countries.

Silex Systems out of GLE restructure

Uranium and Fuel

13 June 2018

Silex Systems Limited has abandoned its acquisition of a majority stake in GE-Hitachi Global Laser Enrichment, saying there are too many risks associated with GLE's business case which includes the construction of a commercial enrichment plant in the USA. It also intends to terminate GLE's exclusive licence for the SILEX laser enrichment technology.

DOE announces funding for innovative nuclear technology

New Nuclear

05 June 2018

Holos_Quad_(HolosGen)_48Ten projects have been selected to receive a total of up to USD24 million in funding under a new programme from the US Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy initiative. The projects selected include a transportable gas-cooled reactor, and technology to support load-following, improve safety and reduce costs in advanced reactors.