Articles tagged with "nuclear-energy"
World's first land-based small modular nuclear reactor passes key test
China’s ACP100 small modular reactor (SMR), also known as Linglong One, has successfully completed its cold functional testing at the Changjiang site in Hainan province. This milestone, announced by the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), marks the first time a commercial land-based SMR has passed a safety review by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). The cold functional test verifies the installation and operation of all systems and pipelines under pressure without nuclear fuel, ensuring the integrity and leak-proofing of the primary circuit. This achievement paves the way for subsequent hot functional tests, which will simulate thermal conditions by raising the reactor coolant system’s temperature to validate operational readiness before fuel loading. The ACP100 is a 125 megawatt electric (MWe) integrated pressurized water reactor designed for a 60-year lifespan with a two-year refueling cycle. Beyond electricity generation, it can provide regional heating, seawater desalination, and industrial steam supply, earning it the nickname “n
energysmall-modular-reactornuclear-powerACP100China-National-Nuclear-Corporationnuclear-energyclean-energyNew scanner tackles hazardous nuclear debris at Fukushima meltdown site
Scientists led by Haruo Miyadera have developed a prototype muon scattering tomography scanner to analyze hazardous nuclear fuel debris at the Fukushima Daiichi meltdown site. This technology leverages cosmic ray muons, subatomic particles naturally occurring, to create images based on how they scatter when passing through materials with high atomic numbers like uranium. The scanner, designed to operate in the high-radiation environment of Fukushima, features radiation-resistant muon trackers with a 1.2 × 1.2 m² detection area and advanced FPGA electronics to detect muon events amid intense gamma radiation. The team also devised an analytical method combining muon scattering angles, stopping rates, and debris weight to estimate uranium dioxide content without relying on complex AI, achieving reasonable accuracy within a few hours of measurement. The development is timely as large-scale retrieval of approximately 880 tons of fuel debris from Fukushima Units 1, 2, and 3 is planned to start in 2024. The debris management process involves classifying material
energynuclear-energyFukushimamuon-scattering-tomographyradiation-detectionnuclear-fuel-debrisradioactive-waste-managementManhattan Project site to host world’s first nuclear reactor factory
Radiant, a California-based nuclear startup, plans to build the world’s first factory for mass-producing portable nuclear generators on historic Manhattan Project land in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. The factory, named R-50, will be located on portions of the former K-27 and K-29 sites, part of the Oak Ridge Gaseous Diffusion Plant used during World War II for uranium enrichment. Construction is set to begin in early 2026, with the goal of delivering the first Kaleidos nuclear generators by 2028 and scaling production to 50 reactors annually in subsequent years. Radiant’s CEO, Doug Bernauer, emphasized the symbolic significance of transforming the original Manhattan Project site into a hub for next-generation nuclear technology. The Kaleidos microreactor, Radiant’s flagship product, is a 1-megawatt failsafe nuclear microreactor designed for reliable, portable power without frequent refueling. It targets diverse applications including remote communities, critical infrastructure, military operations, and data
energynuclear-energyportable-nuclear-generatorsManhattan-ProjectOak-Ridgenuclear-reactorsclean-energy-innovationNext-gen nuclear fuel from US firm gets green light for critical testing
US-based Lightbridge Corporation has reached a significant milestone in developing its next-generation nuclear fuel by completing the assembly of advanced fuel samples for critical irradiation testing. The proprietary fuel design uses an enriched uranium-zirconium metallic alloy, differing from the conventional ceramic uranium dioxide fuel used in most reactors. This metallic alloy is expected to improve heat transfer, allowing the fuel to operate at lower temperatures and thereby enhancing reactor safety margins. The assembled fuel samples are set for irradiation inside the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) at Idaho National Laboratory (INL), a key step toward gathering the empirical data needed for regulatory approval and commercial deployment. The preparation involved precise manufacturing and encapsulation of the fuel samples, conducted under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) between Lightbridge and INL, exemplifying a public-private partnership to accelerate nuclear innovation. After irradiation in the ATR, the fuel will undergo detailed post-irradiation examination in shielded hot cells to assess structural changes and integrity. This testing aims to validate
nuclear-energyadvanced-nuclear-fueluranium-zirconium-alloyreactor-safetyirradiation-testingnuclear-materialsenergy-innovationRussia exits US nuclear deal, takes back 34 tons of nuke material
Russia has officially withdrawn from the 2000 Plutonium Management and Disposition Agreement (PMDA) with the United States, which required both countries to dispose of 34 metric tons of weapons-grade plutonium by converting it into fuel for civilian reactors. The Russian Parliament passed legislation on October 8, 2025, denouncing the pact, citing “fundamental changes in circumstances” such as NATO expansion, US sanctions, and military support for Ukraine. Russia had effectively ceased participation in the agreement since 2016, accusing the US of failing to meet its obligations and using the deal for political leverage. The termination means Russia could reclassify the 34 tons of plutonium as part of its strategic reserves, halting further commitments to render the material unusable for weapons. This decision adds to a series of arms control setbacks between Moscow and Washington, including Russia’s withdrawal from the Conventional Armed Forces in Europe treaty, suspension of New START participation, and cessation of cooperation under the Open Skies
energynuclear-energyplutoniumnuclear-materialsnuclear-disarmamentnuclear-weaponsinternational-agreementsHeight of UK nuclear reactor to be cut in half in cleanup drive
The UK’s former Trawsfynydd nuclear power station, equipped with a 392 MWe Magnox reactor that operated from 1965 to 1991, is undergoing a major decommissioning project involving the reduction of its two main reactor buildings’ height from approximately 54 meters to 25 meters. This complex engineering effort, awarded to infrastructure company Costain under a $94 million contract by Nuclear Restoration Services (NRS), a subsidiary of the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA), will remove around 15,000 cubic meters of concrete and brickwork. Following the height reduction, Costain will conduct civil and remedial works to stabilize the structures, preparing the site for further cleanup phases. Trawsfynydd has been designated as the ‘lead and learn’ facility for the UK’s Magnox reactor decommissioning program, meaning the techniques, safety measures, and data collected here will guide the dismantling of 10 other Magnox sites nationwide, contributing significantly to the
energynuclear-energynuclear-decommissioninginfrastructurecivil-engineeringclean-upMagnox-reactorUS court ruling allows release of radioactive water into Hudson River
A U.S. federal court has overturned a New York state law that sought to prevent the discharge of approximately 45,000 gallons of radioactive water from the decommissioned Indian Point Energy Center into the Hudson River. The ruling favored Holtec International, which acquired the Indian Point site in 2021 after its permanent shutdown, allowing the company to proceed with releasing nuclear wastewater as part of the plant’s decommissioning process. The 2023 state law, signed by Governor Kathy Hochul, aimed to protect the Hudson River region by restricting radiological discharges during decommissioning, but the court ruled that federal law and regulatory authority by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) preempt state restrictions. Holtec International stated that the discharge falls under federal jurisdiction and assured that the decommissioning would be conducted in an environmentally responsible manner, adhering to safety regulations. The company and its attorneys emphasized that radiation exposure from the discharge is expected to remain within regulated safety limits, noting that millions
energynuclear-energyradioactive-wastedecommissioningenvironmental-impactwater-dischargeHoltec-InternationalUS plans to power AI data centers with advanced nuclear energy
The US National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) has issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to develop and operate large-scale Artificial Intelligence (AI) data centers powered by advanced nuclear energy. The initiative targets two historic nuclear sites—the Savannah River Site (SRS) in South Carolina and the Oak Ridge Reservation in Tennessee—with ten tracts of land at SRS identified for potential development. This effort aims to strengthen American leadership in AI and energy by fostering public-private partnerships that integrate innovative on-site energy generation and storage solutions, aligning with the Department of Energy’s goals for reliable, energy-efficient, and water-conscious operations to meet the substantial power demands of AI technologies. Selected private partners will be responsible for the full lifecycle of the projects, including construction, operation, and decommissioning, and must secure their own utility interconnections. Proposals will be competitively evaluated based on technological readiness, financial viability, and regulatory compliance. The Savannah River Site, historically a key facility for nuclear weapons material production
energynuclear-energyAI-data-centersadvanced-energy-infrastructureDepartment-of-Energynuclear-securitysustainable-power-generationNew deep tech fund Wave Function Ventures raises $15 million
Jamie Gull, an aerospace engineer with a background at Scaled Composites and SpaceX, has launched Wave Function Ventures, an early-stage deep tech fund that recently closed its first $15.1 million fund. Gull has already invested in nine startups across sectors including nuclear energy, humanoid robotics, and aerospace, with plans to make about 25 seed or pre-seed investments. The fund’s limited partners include high net worth individuals, family offices, and other funds, though the anchor LP remains undisclosed. Wave Function Ventures enters the market amid growing interest and capital inflows into deep tech, especially in aerospace and defense, exemplified by other large funds like Silicon Valley’s Leitmotif. Gull’s extensive experience spans rapid prototyping, founding an eVTOL startup (Talyn Air), angel investing, and venture partnership at Y Combinator’s Pioneer Fund. He aims to leverage this expertise to support founders navigating the uncertain early stages of deep tech ventures. He believes deep tech startups
roboticsenergyaerospacedeep-techventure-capitalstartupsnuclear-energyRussia to build closed nuclear fuel cycle system recycling 95% waste
Russia plans to develop the world’s first closed nuclear fuel cycle system by 2030 in the Tomsk region, aiming to recycle 95% of spent nuclear fuel. Announced by President Vladimir Putin at the Global Atomic Forum in Moscow, this initiative addresses the anticipated depletion of uranium resources, projected by the OECD to occur between the 2060s and 2090 under optimistic scenarios. The closed fuel cycle will enable spent fuel to be reused multiple times, reducing radioactive waste accumulation and extending uranium supply longevity. An International Research Centre in the Ulyanovsk region will support the development and testing of advanced materials essential for this closed cycle technology. Putin emphasized Russia’s broader advancements in nuclear energy, including the deployment of modular data processing systems at nuclear plants, development of small modular and floating nuclear reactors, and a strong focus on nuclear safety and physical protection of facilities. Russia’s state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, is actively involved in international nuclear projects in countries such as Iran, India, and
energynuclear-energyclosed-fuel-cycleuranium-recyclingradioactive-waste-managementnuclear-power-plantsmodular-nuclear-reactorsUS firm sells unique ODIN nuclear microreactor design to UK buyers
US-based NANO Nuclear Energy has signed a $6.2 million letter of intent to sell its proprietary ODIN microreactor design to UK firm Cambridge AtomWorks. The ODIN microreactor is an advanced portable nuclear reactor utilizing High-Assay Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) with enrichment levels up to 20%. Its design emphasizes safety and reliability through low-pressure coolant systems and natural convection for efficient heat transfer during operation and shutdown. The reactor also features a unique reactivity control system to ensure robustness. Cambridge AtomWorks, led by nuclear experts from the University of Cambridge and previously a consultant on ODIN’s development, is described as a “natural buyer” for the technology. The transaction is expected to close by the end of 2025. Following this sale, NANO Nuclear plans to focus its efforts on its portfolio of gas-cooled advanced microreactors, including the KRONOS MMR Energy System, LOKI MMR, and ZEUS. The company
energynuclear-energymicroreactoradvanced-reactor-designnatural-convectionHALEUportable-nuclear-reactorNorth Korea possibly received nuclear reactor for submarine from Russia
South Korean military intelligence has reported that Russia may have supplied North Korea with nuclear reactor modules suitable for submarine propulsion, potentially including complete functioning reactors. These modules, possibly delivered in the first half of 2024, are believed to have been taken from decommissioned Russian submarines and include critical components such as reactors, turbines, and cooling systems. Since 2023, North Korea has reportedly been persistently requesting nuclear submarine technology and advanced fighter jets from Russia, with Moscow initially hesitant but seemingly agreeing to provide the submarine technology this year. Nuclear submarines, powered by pressurized water reactors, offer significant stealth advantages as they can operate submerged for long periods and are difficult to detect by conventional sonar or radar, though they emit a heat signature from their reactors. Possession of such technology would substantially enhance North Korea’s military capabilities, enabling covert operations in enemy territories and posing a serious threat to South Korea and potentially the United States. While North Korea may lack the indigenous capability to build nuclear submarines independently
energynuclear-reactorsubmarine-technologynuclear-propulsionmilitary-technologystealth-vesselsnuclear-energyUS firm tests powerful nuclear laser to advance uranium enrichment
Global Laser Enrichment (GLE), a U.S.-based company, has completed a large-scale demonstration testing campaign of its SILEX laser uranium enrichment process at its Test Loop facility in Wilmington, North Carolina. The campaign, which began in May 2024 and will continue through 2025, aims to produce hundreds of pounds of low-enriched uranium (LEU) for nuclear fuel. GLE’s facility is notable as the world’s only uranium enrichment site that is not government-owned or heavily government-funded. The company, jointly owned by Australia’s Silex Systems and Canada’s Cameco Corporation, is working to commercialize this third-generation laser enrichment technology, which is considered more efficient than traditional methods like gaseous diffusion and gas centrifuge. The SILEX process uses highly selective laser excitation to separate the fissile uranium-235 isotope from uranium-238, increasing the concentration of U-235 needed for nuclear reactors. This technology is seen as pivotal for advancing domestic uranium enrichment capabilities in
energynuclear-energyuranium-enrichmentlaser-technologynuclear-fueladvanced-reactorsenergy-supply-chainSmall modular reactors designed to drive carbon-free ammonia
Ammonia production, a critical process for global fertilizer supply, is highly energy-intensive and currently relies heavily on natural gas steam reforming, contributing about 1.2 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions and 2 percent of fossil energy use. With rising demand driven by population growth, reducing the carbon footprint of ammonia manufacturing is urgent. Researchers in the U.S., led by Utah State University and funded by the Department of Energy’s Nuclear Energy University Program, are investigating the use of small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) to power carbon-free ammonia plants. SMRs offer reliable baseload power and heat, can be located near consumption centers to reduce transportation emissions, and enable co-location of hydrogen and nitrogen production with ammonia synthesis, improving efficiency and lowering costs. The project focuses on two reference designs using the NuScale SMR (250 MW thermal, 77 MW electric) as the energy source, with one design using freshwater and the other incorporating desalination for seawater or brackish water. Hydrogen
energysmall-modular-reactorscarbon-free-ammonianuclear-energyhydrogen-productionelectrolysissustainable-energyUS-UK firms sign nuclear deals promising gigawatts of clean energy
US and UK companies have signed multiple significant deals to accelerate the development of new nuclear energy projects in both countries, supported by an upcoming government agreement called the Atlantic Partnership for Advanced Nuclear Energy. This partnership, expected to be formalized during President Donald Trump’s state visit to Britain, aims to streamline nuclear project licensing from three to four years down to about two years, thereby facilitating faster deployment of advanced nuclear reactors. The initiative is projected to unlock billions in private investment and create thousands of jobs, signaling a major expansion in nuclear energy infrastructure. Key deals include a collaboration between US-based X-Energy and UK’s Centrica to build up to 12 advanced modular reactors in Hartlepool, potentially generating enough power for 1.5 million homes and delivering up to $54 billion in economic value. Other projects involve Holtec, EDF, and Tritax developing small modular reactor-powered data centers in Nottinghamshire, and Last Energy and DP World planning one of the world’s first micro modular nuclear plants with $108
energynuclear-energyclean-energyadvanced-reactorsmodular-reactorsenergy-storageUS-UK-partnershipCanada’s National Projects: Betting on Nuclear & LNG While the Future Waits - CleanTechnica
Canada has recently designated five megaprojects as being in the national interest, with a heavy financial and climate commitment extending over decades. The approved projects are dominated by nuclear and LNG developments, which together account for nearly 90% of the adjusted projected spending—over CA$52 billion out of a total CA$58.8 billion when factoring in typical cost overruns based on historical data. Using Bent Flyvbjerg’s reference class forecasting, the article highlights that such megaprojects frequently experience significant delays, cost overruns (often exceeding 50%), and under-deliver on promised benefits. This pattern is evident in Canada’s nuclear initiative, particularly the Darlington small modular reactor (SMR) project, which, despite its ambition to be a G7 first, carries high risk due to its first-of-a-kind nature and historical nuclear project challenges. The LNG Canada Phase 2 project, estimated at CA$20 billion, also raises concerns. While proponents tout its efficiency and use of
energynuclear-energyLNGsmall-modular-reactorsclean-energy-projectsCanada-energy-policyenergy-infrastructureSmall Modular Reactors and the Big Questions of Cost & Waste - CleanTechnica
The article from CleanTechnica critically examines the claims surrounding Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) as a transformative technology for nuclear energy and decarbonization. While SMRs are promoted as cheaper, safer, faster to build, and easier to finance than traditional large reactors, a recent study published in Progress in Nuclear Energy challenges these assertions. Authored by experts Philseo Kim and Allison Macfarlane, the study analyzes both economic and waste management aspects of SMRs. It finds significant uncertainties and structural challenges, particularly highlighting that SMRs may have higher levelized costs of electricity (LCOE) than anticipated, often exceeding $100 per MWh, due largely to the loss of economies of scale inherent in smaller reactors. Real-world projects, such as NuScale’s canceled flagship plant, underscore these cost overruns. On the waste front, the study reveals even more concerning issues. SMRs could produce two to thirty times more spent fuel per unit of energy compared to conventional reactors, with smaller
energynuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorsSMRsnuclear-wastedecarbonizationenergy-policyUS nuclear firm to build 15 MW reactors a mile underground by 2026
Deep Fission, a US nuclear startup, has secured $30 million through a reverse merger with Surfside Acquisition Inc. to develop and deploy 15-megawatt mini nuclear reactors buried a mile underground. These reactors, designed to fit into 30-inch diameter boreholes, use pressurized water cooling and leverage proven technologies from nuclear submarines and traditional plants. By situating the reactors deep in bedrock, the company aims to enhance safety through natural shielding, reduce surface footprint, and protect against external threats. The design incorporates elements from nuclear, oil and gas, and geothermal industries, using off-the-shelf parts and low-enriched uranium to simplify supply chains. Deep Fission projects electricity costs of 5 to 7 cents per kilowatt-hour for its commercial systems. The company plans to complete its first pilot reactor by July 2026, supported by a Department of Energy (DOE) Reactor Pilot Program that aims to streamline permitting and accelerate deployment. Deep Fission has also signed a deal
energynuclear-energyunderground-reactorssmall-modular-reactorsclean-energyAI-data-centersDepartment-of-EnergyOklo to open first private nuclear fuel recycling facility in the US
Oklo Inc., a nuclear technology company, is set to open the United States’ first privately funded nuclear fuel recycling facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, with an investment of up to $1.68 billion. This facility will recycle used nuclear fuel, recovering usable materials to produce new fuel for advanced reactors such as Oklo’s Aurora powerhouse. The project is expected to create over 800 jobs and aims to reduce nuclear waste while establishing a secure domestic supply chain for clean, reliable, and affordable energy. Oklo is also exploring a partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to recycle TVA’s used nuclear fuel, marking the first time a U.S. utility has considered converting its spent fuel into clean electricity. The United States currently stores over 94,000 metric tons of used nuclear fuel, which contains energy equivalent to about 1.3 trillion barrels of oil—five times the oil reserves of Saudi Arabia. By unlocking this energy through modern recycling processes, Oklo’s initiative could significantly contribute
energynuclear-energyfuel-recyclingadvanced-reactorsclean-energyenergy-policynuclear-technologyCanada’s $456B Megaprojects List: Building The Past Or Electrifying The Future? - CleanTechnica
Canada is preparing to invest approximately CAD 456 billion in 32 major infrastructure projects spanning sectors such as ports, high-speed rail, hydroelectricity, nuclear energy, mining, oil and gas, carbon capture, offshore wind, and transmission. While this ambitious program appears to be a bold nation-building effort, it reflects Canada’s existing contradictions: a disproportionate focus on legacy industries like oil, gas, and bulk commodity exports, and insufficient investment in infrastructure critical to electrification and a low-carbon future. The federal government aims to streamline project approvals through a new Major Projects Office and a single federal approval track to reduce review times and regulatory complexity, though many projects will be led and financed by private, provincial, and Indigenous partners. Applying reference class forecasting (RCF)—a method that adjusts official cost estimates based on historical overruns—reveals that Canada’s public cost projections are systematically underestimated by about one-third on average, with hydro and nuclear projects potentially exceeding estimates by over 50%. Transportation projects,
energyinfrastructuremegaprojectshydroelectricitynuclear-energyoffshore-windminingSatellite photos show new work at Israel’s secretive nuclear site
New satellite images reveal significant construction activity at Israel’s Shimon Peres Negev Nuclear Research Center near Dimona, a site long associated with the country’s clandestine nuclear weapons program. Experts analyzing the images suggest the new facility could either be a heavy water reactor—capable of producing plutonium for nuclear warheads—or a site for assembling nuclear arms. The exact purpose remains uncertain due to Israel’s strict secrecy and refusal to allow international inspections. The construction includes thick concrete walls and multiple underground levels, with no containment dome visible yet, though one could be added later or may not be necessary if Israel is pursuing a dome-less reactor design. The existing Dimona reactor, operational since the 1960s, is well beyond its typical lifespan, increasing the likelihood that the new construction is intended as a replacement. The timing is notable, occurring shortly after Israel and the U.S. targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, including a heavy water reactor. Analysts emphasize Israel’s policy of “nuclear ambiguity,” neither confirming
energynuclear-energynuclear-reactorheavy-water-reactornuclear-weaponssatellite-imagerynuclear-materialsChina's Hualong One becomes world's most deployed 3rd-gen reactor design
China’s Hualong One nuclear reactor has become the world’s most deployed third-generation reactor design, with 41 units currently in operation globally. Entirely domestically produced, each unit can generate approximately 10 billion kilowatt-hours of clean energy annually, sufficient to power about one million people in a moderately developed country. The reactor, also known as the HPR1000 for export, is a pressurized water reactor (PWR) that incorporates advanced safety features and efficiency improvements learned from previous generations, including lessons from the Fukushima disaster. Seven units are already grid-connected, with Pakistan being the first overseas customer and Argentina also among the partners. Over 20 additional countries have signed cooperation agreements to deploy the technology. The Hualong One reactors contribute significantly to carbon emissions reduction, avoiding around 8 million tonnes of CO₂ per year per unit. The Karachi units in Pakistan have collectively generated about 48 billion kWh and prevented approximately 39 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions. The first unit was
energynuclear-energyHualong-Oneclean-energynuclear-reactorpower-generationChina-energy-technology30 MW water-cooled small modular reactor could be deployed in France
Calogena, a French company, plans to explore deploying its 30 MW water-cooled small modular reactor (SMR), called CAL30, at the Cadarache research and development site. The CAL30 SMR is designed to supply carbon-free heat to urban heating networks, operating at low pressure (6 bars) and low temperature (100 °C), which makes it simpler and safer than conventional reactors. The design is based on decades-old pool-type research reactors and uses the same fuel as traditional reactors but in a shortened form. Calogena aims for deployment as early as 2030, highlighting the reactor’s compact footprint (3,000 m² land, under 1,000 m² buildings) and minimal refueling needs (one lorry every two years), which contrasts with the frequent fuel deliveries required by wood-fired heating. CAL30 is one of four SMR designs currently under evaluation by the French Nuclear Safety and Radiation Protection Authority (ASN). Calogena’s design is
energysmall-modular-reactornuclear-energyclean-energywater-cooled-reactordistrict-heatingCalogenaUS scientists capture fleeting muons with new mobile detector
Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have developed a new mobile muon detector that significantly enhances imaging capabilities for dense, shielded materials such as spent nuclear fuel. Inspired by a neutron detector designed over a decade ago for the Spallation Neutron Source, this device uniquely captures both muon energy and scattering angles in real time, improving image quality beyond previous muon tomography systems that typically recorded only one parameter. The detector’s development involved interdisciplinary collaboration between ORNL’s Neutron Sciences and Fusion and Fission Energy and Sciences directorates and is set to be deployed for practical measurements later this year. Muons, fundamental particles that decay within microseconds, provide a non-destructive means to probe deep into matter, but their fleeting nature has made detection challenging. By adapting wavelength-shifting fiber technology from neutron detectors, the ORNL team overcame this limitation, enabling real-time capture of muon interactions. Beyond nuclear fuel monitoring, the detector is expected to
energynuclear-energymuon-detectorparticle-detectionquantum-computingnuclear-safetyOak-Ridge-National-LaboratoryUS may build Sentinel nuclear missile silos on private lands
The U.S. Air Force is considering building hundreds of new missile silos on private lands as part of the LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) program, which aims to replace the aging Minuteman III fleet. Lt. Gen. Andrew Gebara, the Air Force’s deputy chief of staff for strategic deterrence and nuclear integration, emphasized that constructing new silos could save time and money by avoiding delays associated with converting existing silos while the Minuteman III missiles remain operational. However, some new silo sites may require purchasing private property. The Sentinel program will operate out of missile fields at Minot (North Dakota), F.E. Warren (Wyoming), and Malmstrom (Montana) Air Force Bases, with Minot scheduled to be the last base to transition, potentially extending into the 2040s. Officials highlighted that new silos could mitigate current facility issues such as flooding risks and hazards from nearby wind turbines, and community input will be
energynuclear-energymissile-silosdefense-technologystrategic-deterrencemilitary-infrastructureintercontinental-ballistic-missilesUS to boost nuclear fuel, reactor development with uranium allocation
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has taken a major step to advance nuclear energy by conditionally allocating high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) to three domestic companies—Antares Nuclear, Standard Nuclear, and Abilene Christian University/Natura Resources LLC—to support near-term fuel needs for advanced reactor development. HALEU, enriched between 5% and less than 20% uranium-235, is crucial for enabling smaller, more efficient reactor designs with longer operating cycles, which current reactors running on up to 5% enriched uranium cannot achieve. This allocation follows an earlier distribution of HALEU to five companies and aims to jumpstart a new domestic advanced fuel supply chain, reducing reliance on foreign sources and fostering a U.S. nuclear energy renaissance. The DOE emphasizes the urgent need for HALEU, as its absence could jeopardize the development, demonstration, and deployment of many advanced nuclear technologies. Currently, HALEU is not available from domestic suppliers,
energynuclear-energyadvanced-reactorsuranium-fuelHALEUDepartment-of-Energynuclear-fuel-developmentBill Gates backs nuclear-powered ships in new push with HD Hyundai
HD Hyundai, South Korea’s leading shipbuilder, is strengthening its partnership with Bill Gates’ nuclear energy startup TerraPower to advance small modular reactor (SMR) technology, particularly for marine applications. Executive Vice Chairman Chung Ki-sun met with Gates in Seoul to discuss collaboration on TerraPower’s Natrium reactor, a fourth-generation sodium-cooled fast reactor (SFR) design known for high thermal efficiency, enhanced safety, and up to 40% reduced nuclear waste compared to conventional reactors. This meeting followed a March agreement to build a manufacturing and supply network for Natrium reactors, including a planned 345-megawatt reactor in Wyoming for which HD Hyundai will supply the reactor vessel. HD Hyundai had previously invested $30 million in TerraPower, underscoring its commitment to this technology. HD Hyundai views SMRs as a crucial component of the future global energy mix and aims to develop marine nuclear propulsion systems, including SMRs and hydrogen fuel cells, with a planned investment of about $215 million
energynuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorsSMRTerraPowerHD-HyundaishipbuildingAlien spy? Mystery space object may be nuclear spaceship, claims Harvard scientist
A recently discovered interstellar comet, 3I/ATLAS, detected in July 2025, has attracted significant scientific attention due to its rare origin outside our solar system. It is only the third known interstellar object after 1I/ʻOumuamua and 2I/Borisov. Harvard scientist Avi Loeb has speculated that 3I/ATLAS might not be a natural comet but potentially a nuclear-powered spacecraft of extraterrestrial origin. Loeb bases this hypothesis on observations from the Hubble Space Telescope showing a light glow seemingly emanating from the object's core rather than from surrounding dust, as is typical for comets. He proposes two explanations: either it is a radioactive fragment from a supernova or, more speculatively, a spacecraft emitting dust from its surface as it travels through space. Loeb acknowledges that these claims are bold and require more evidence to be substantiated. He highlights the object's unusual "fine-tuned trajectory" and its similarity in size to
energynuclear-energyspace-technologyinterstellar-objectspacecraftnuclear-powered-spacecraftextraterrestrial-technologyAalo Atomics raises $100M to build a microreactor and data center together
Aalo Atomics, a nuclear startup inspired by a Department of Energy small modular reactor design called Marvel, has raised $100 million in a Series B funding round led by Valor Equity Partners and several other investors. The company plans to activate its first microreactor by summer 2026, aiming to challenge the nuclear industry’s typical long development timelines by leveraging economies of scale. Its flagship product, the Aalo Pod, will combine five Aalo-1 reactors to generate 50 megawatts of electricity through a single turbine. Additionally, the startup intends to build an experimental data center adjacent to its prototype reactor, though this aspect appears more promotional than a breakthrough innovation. Aalo Atomics targets delivering electricity at a competitive rate of three cents per kilowatt-hour, comparable to new natural gas and solar power plants, although no specific timeline has been set for achieving this price point. The company’s aggressive schedule and cost goals reflect broader trends in advanced nuclear startups seeking to modernize and scale nuclear power efficiently
energynuclear-energymicroreactordata-centerclean-energysmall-modular-reactorpower-generationGoogle signs first US Gen IV nuclear deal to power its data centers
Google has signed a landmark power purchase agreement (PPA) with the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) to buy electricity from Kairos Power’s Hermes 2 Generation IV nuclear reactor, marking the first such deal between a U.S. utility and an advanced nuclear developer. The 50-megawatt reactor, expected to begin operations by 2030 in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, will supply carbon-free power to TVA’s grid, supporting Google’s data centers in Tennessee and Alabama. This agreement initiates a broader collaboration aimed at unlocking up to 500 megawatts of advanced nuclear capacity over the next decade, reflecting Google’s commitment to securing reliable, 24/7 carbon-free energy amid rising electricity demand driven by AI and cloud services. The deal also symbolizes a revival of Oak Ridge’s historic role in nuclear innovation and aligns with recent federal efforts to accelerate advanced nuclear development. The Trump administration’s executive orders have streamlined licensing for small modular and micro-reactors, aiming to significantly increase U.S.
energynuclear-energyGeneration-IV-reactorsclean-energypower-purchase-agreementdata-centersadvanced-nuclear-technologyUS lab tests GE Vernova nuclear fuel after 6 years in commercial use
Scientists at the US Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have begun analyzing advanced nuclear fuel rods developed by Global Nuclear Fuel (GNF), a GE Vernova-led joint venture with Hitachi Ltd., after six years of commercial reactor use. These high burnup fuel rods, designed to enhance nuclear reactor efficiency and reduce spent fuel waste, were manufactured at GNF’s Wilmington, NC facility and operated through extended cycles beyond current US Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing limits. The examination at PNNL aims to assess the fuel and cladding performance after prolonged reactor exposure, supporting ongoing development under the DOE’s Accident Tolerant Fuel program. High burnup fuels utilize more fissile material, allowing reactors to operate longer and more efficiently while generating less nuclear waste, which improves fuel cycle economics and safety. The advanced fuel is expected to remain in reactor cores for extended periods, potentially enabling fuel cycle lengths of 36-48 months. GE Vernova plans to use this fuel design
energynuclear-fueladvanced-materialspower-plantsfuel-efficiencynuclear-energyGE-VernovaUK’s Rolls-Royce taps small nuclear reactors to fuel AI boom
Rolls-Royce is aiming to become the UK’s most valuable company by leveraging its expertise in nuclear technology to support the growing energy demands of artificial intelligence (AI). The company plans to power AI infrastructure using small modular reactors (SMRs), having already secured deals with the UK and Czech Republic governments. Rolls-Royce’s CEO, Tufan Erginbilgic, highlighted the company’s unique nuclear capabilities, including its experience supplying reactors for submarines, as a key competitive advantage in developing land-based SMRs. He predicts a global market need for 400 SMRs by 2050, each costing around $3 billion, representing a trillion-dollar opportunity. Rolls-Royce’s SMRs are designed to generate 470 megawatts of low-carbon energy—enough to power approximately 3 million homes—and are faster to build than traditional nuclear plants. The company has signed a memorandum of understanding with Škoda JS to explore component production for its SMR program, aiming
energynuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorsRolls-RoyceAI-energy-solutionslow-carbon-energygreen-technologyUS taps 11 nuclear reactor projects to speed up clean energy goals
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has selected 11 advanced nuclear reactor projects to participate in President Trump’s Nuclear Reactor Pilot Program, aiming to accelerate the development, testing, and licensing of advanced reactors by July 4, 2026. This initiative seeks to streamline the construction and operation of at least three test reactors outside national laboratories, supporting the goal of making the U.S. a global leader in nuclear energy while ensuring a steady supply of clean energy to American homes and businesses. The selected companies, including Aalo Atomics, Oklo, Terrestrial Energy, and others, will bear all costs related to their reactors’ lifecycle but will benefit from faster regulatory pathways and improved access to private funding. Among the highlighted projects is Terrestrial Energy’s TETRA, which utilizes Integral Molten Salt Reactor (IMSR) technology to deliver 822 MWth/390 MWe, promising efficient and low-cost electricity generation. Oklo, backed by OpenAI founder Sam Altman, is
energynuclear-energyadvanced-reactorsclean-energyUS-Department-of-Energymodular-reactorsnuclear-power-plantsUK scientists to make nuclear reactor graphite from recycled waste
The University of Manchester is leading a five-year UK research program called ENLIGHT, funded by an $11 million grant from UK Research and Innovation and industry partners, to transform the lifecycle of nuclear reactor graphite. The program involves Oxford, Plymouth, and Loughborough universities and aims to develop technologies for producing sustainable, domestically sourced nuclear-grade graphite and recycling irradiated graphite waste. This initiative addresses the UK's reliance on imported graphite—a key material accounting for about one-third of reactor build costs—and the growing stockpile of over 100,000 tons of irradiated graphite from decommissioned reactors. ENLIGHT supports the UK’s goal to expand nuclear power capacity to 24 gigawatts by 2050 as part of its net zero ambitions. The program focuses on designing new graphite materials that can withstand extreme reactor conditions, improving their lifespan, and converting irradiated graphite waste into a valuable resource. It is expected to save the UK up to £2 billion in future waste management costs, enhance energy security,
energynuclear-energygraphite-materialsadvanced-modular-reactorsrecyclingsustainable-energyUK-energy-innovationUS airport to explore small nuclear reactor for clean energy future
Denver International Airport (DEN) has initiated a request for proposals (RFP) to study the feasibility of building a small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) on its campus as part of its strategy to meet future clean energy demands. The airport anticipates serving over 120 million passengers annually by 2045 and is exploring SMRs as a reliable, scalable, and potentially cost-effective energy source to power its extensive ground operations. Unlike solar and wind power, SMRs can provide continuous, round-the-clock energy, complementing renewable sources and supporting the airport’s goal to become the greenest airport globally. The feasibility study, costing up to $1.25 million and expected to take 6-12 months, will evaluate the viability of SMRs for DEN’s long-term energy needs, including technology types, cost estimates, funding options, risks, and regulatory requirements. Denver’s leadership emphasizes this as a forward-looking, sustainable initiative aimed at addressing the challenges of a growing city and climate change. If implemented
energynuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorclean-energyDenver-International-Airportsustainable-energyrenewable-energy-alternativesUS reshores uranium processing with new enrichment facility deal
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has signed a lease agreement with General Matter Inc. to establish a new private-sector uranium enrichment facility on a 100-acre parcel of federal land at the former Paducah Gaseous Diffusion Plant (PGDP) site. The PGDP, operational from 1952 to 2013, was originally used for enriching uranium for nuclear weapons and later for commercial nuclear fuel. This initiative aims to repurpose the site to support America’s goal of becoming a leader in nuclear energy by reshoring and expanding domestic nuclear fuel supply chains, which are critical for national security, commercial power generation, and scientific research reactors. General Matter, one of four companies selected by DOE in October 2024 to provide uranium enrichment services, plans to begin construction in 2026 and start uranium enrichment operations by the end of the decade. The lease includes access to 7,600 cylinders of uranium hexafluoride, which will be reprocessed to support reenrichment
energynuclear-energyuranium-enrichmentDepartment-of-Energydomestic-supply-chainnuclear-fuelnuclear-reactorsThe History and Physics of the Atomic Bomb
The article traces the origins and impact of the atomic bomb, beginning with the devastating bombing of Hiroshima on August 6, 1945, which marked the start of the nuclear age. Despite nuclear weapons being used only twice during World War II—on Hiroshima and Nagasaki—their existence continues to pose a global threat, with over 12,000 warheads still in existence despite disarmament efforts and international treaties. The memory of Hiroshima remains a powerful symbol of the catastrophic potential of nuclear weapons. The development of the atomic bomb stemmed from scientific discoveries in the 1930s amid the rise of totalitarian regimes in Europe. Hungarian physicist Leo Szilard conceived the idea of a self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction triggered by neutron-induced atomic fission. Italian physicist Enrico Fermi identified uranium as a material capable of sustaining this reaction. Fearing Nazi Germany’s potential to develop such weapons, the United States launched the Manhattan Project in 1940, assembling a team including Sz
energynuclear-energyatomic-bombnuclear-fissionManhattan-Projectnuclear-weaponsnuclear-physicsHiroshima survivor warns world is ignoring the nuclear threat today
The article commemorates the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima, highlighting a solemn ceremony held at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park attended by survivors, residents, and delegates from 120 countries. Hiroshima’s mayor, Kazumi Matsui, delivered a poignant appeal urging world leaders to abandon nuclear deterrence policies amid growing global conflicts, notably citing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East as contributing to a dangerous normalization of nuclear weapons. Matsui emphasized the threat that current nuclear posturing poses to the peace-building efforts established since World War II and called on younger generations to understand the catastrophic humanitarian consequences of nuclear warfare. Despite these challenges, he expressed hope that civil society could unite to abolish nuclear weapons and achieve lasting peace. The article also recounts the historical context of the Hiroshima bombing on August 6, 1945, when the U.S. dropped the uranium bomb “Little Boy,” instantly killing approximately 78,000 people and causing tens of thousands more deaths by year’s end. Along with
energynuclear-energynuclear-weaponsHiroshimaradiationpeace-advocacynuclear-threatNuclear energy-backed Bitcoin mining plan proposed in France
French lawmakers have proposed legislation allowing the state utility Électricité de France (EDF) to use surplus electricity from its nuclear power plants for Bitcoin mining. The bill aims to install mining hardware directly at nuclear sites to convert otherwise wasted energy into digital assets, leveraging France’s position as the largest nuclear power producer in the European Union. Since over two-thirds of the heat generated by nuclear fission is lost before reaching the grid, proponents argue that Bitcoin mining could capture value from this unused capacity without increasing overall electricity demand. This initiative represents a notable political shift, particularly from the right-wing Rassemblement National party, which previously opposed cryptocurrencies but now actively supports crypto-friendly legislation. The proposal follows similar global trends, such as Pakistan’s plan to use underutilized coal-plant capacity for crypto mining and Tether’s experiments with surplus renewable energy mining in South America. However, environmental concerns persist due to Bitcoin’s high energy consumption—estimated between 138 and 173 terawatt-hours annually—raising debates about the
energynuclear-energybitcoin-miningrenewable-energyenergy-efficiencydigital-assetscryptocurrencyRussia’s stealth nuclear submarine’s secrets out, Ukraine claims
Ukraine’s defense intelligence agency, HUR, claims to have obtained sensitive engineering documents and operational details about Russia’s newest stealth nuclear-powered submarine, the Knyaz Pozharsky, a Borei-A (Project 955A) class ballistic missile submarine commissioned in July 2025. This vessel, one of the most modern in Russia’s naval fleet, carries Bulava ballistic missiles capable of striking targets up to 8,000 km away, each missile armed with up to 10 warheads. The submarine features advanced navigation, sonar, and stealth technologies, powered by a VM-5 pressurized water reactor, and displaces 24,000 tons submerged, making it larger than the U.S. Ohio-class submarines. The leaked documents reportedly reveal detailed technical specifications, crew operations, combat layouts, and internal issues such as a deformed radio beacon, along with investigation records and daily schedules of the crew. These insights could expose vulnerabilities and shortcomings in the Borei-A class, which is
energynuclear-energysubmarine-technologymilitary-technologystealth-technologyballistic-missilesnaval-engineeringTrump deploys two nuclear submarines following 'provocations' from Russia
Following provocative statements by former Russian president and current deputy chairman of Russia’s security council Dmitry Medvedev regarding Moscow’s nuclear capabilities, US President Donald Trump ordered the deployment of two Ohio Class nuclear submarines to critical regions as a precautionary measure. Trump emphasized that this move was defensive, aimed at protecting American interests rather than escalating aggression. The submarines, each capable of carrying up to 24 Trident II D5 missiles with a range of 4,600 miles, represent a significant show of force in response to Medvedev’s aggressive rhetoric, including references to the Cold War-era “Dead Hand” automatic nuclear retaliation system. Trump also addressed the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, blaming former President Joe Biden for the war’s outbreak and expressing frustration with Russia’s lack of compliance with his imposed ceasefire deadline. Despite Putin’s stated openness to peace talks, the conflict’s momentum remains in Russia’s favor, and no ceasefire has been agreed upon. Trump has shortened his deadline for Russia to
energynuclear-energysubmarinesmilitary-technologynuclear-weaponsdefense-systemsstrategic-deterrencePele microreactor core fabrication begins for 2028 military launch
The Pele microreactor, a 1.5-megawatt transportable nuclear reactor, has entered the core fabrication phase at BWX Technologies’ Innovation Campus in Lynchburg, Virginia. Designed for the U.S. Department of Defense Strategic Capabilities Office, the reactor aims to begin producing energy by 2028. Compact enough to fit into four 20-foot shipping containers, Pele is a gas-cooled system powered by TRISO fuel, a high-assay low-enriched uranium (HALEU) that can withstand extreme heat and offers low environmental risk. It is intended primarily to power forward military bases but also has potential applications in disaster response and remote research stations, providing electricity for up to three years without refueling. BWXT is collaborating with key partners including Rolls-Royce, which is developing the power conversion module, and Northrop Grumman, responsible for the control module. The project began in 2016 after the Department of Defense identified a need for transportable power
energymicroreactornuclear-energymilitary-technologytransportable-powerdisaster-responseBWX-TechnologiesFears grow over Russian nuclear subs near epicenter of huge 8.8 quake
An 8.8-magnitude earthquake struck Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula near Avacha Bay, raising significant safety concerns due to the proximity of Russian nuclear submarine bases. The quake’s epicenter was just 75 miles from Avacha Bay, home to the Rybachiy submarine base, which hosts advanced nuclear-powered Yasen-class cruise missile submarines and Borei-class ballistic missile submarines—key components of Russia’s strategic nuclear deterrent. While Russian authorities report no major damage or injuries, satellite imagery and local footage show collapsed buildings, damaged ports, and flooded infrastructure, prompting military analysts to scrutinize the situation closely. Experts are particularly worried about potential unseen damage to submarines, especially those undergoing maintenance with exposed hatches, as seismic activity and the resulting tsunami could have compromised their safety and operational readiness. Although a retired Russian Navy officer emphasized the robustness of these bases, built to withstand nuclear strikes, the combination of seismic waves, tsunami risks, and sensitive nuclear equipment has heightened concerns. Ev
energynuclear-energysubmarine-technologyseismic-safetydisaster-impactstrategic-defenseinfrastructure-resilienceFukushima's 880 ton nuclear debris removal delayed by up to 15 yrs
The cleanup of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster site in Japan faces significant delays, with the full-scale removal of approximately 880 tons of molten nuclear fuel debris from the third reactor now postponed by up to 15 years. Originally planned to begin in the early 2030s, Tokyo Electric Power Company Holdings (TEPCO) announced that preparatory work—including radiation reduction and construction of necessary facilities—will take 12 to 15 years, potentially pushing the start of debris removal to 2037 or later. This delay threatens to extend the decommissioning timeline beyond the Japanese government’s target completion year of 2051, although TEPCO remains committed to meeting that deadline. The Fukushima disaster, triggered by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and subsequent tsunami, caused catastrophic meltdowns in three reactors after critical cooling systems failed. The site remains highly radioactive, complicating cleanup efforts. Recent seismic activity, including an 8.8-magnitude earthquake near Russia’s Kamchatka
energynuclear-energyFukushimanuclear-debris-removalradioactive-cleanupTEPCOnuclear-disaster-managementNuclear-powered hydrogen explored to fuel global clean energy shift
Canada-based First Hydrogen Corp. has initiated a collaboration with the University of Alberta to design small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) aimed at producing low-carbon "green" hydrogen at competitive costs. This partnership focuses on refining reactor fuels, core materials, and plant layouts to optimize SMRs for converting heat and electricity into hydrogen without carbon emissions. First Hydrogen’s move into nuclear technology, through its newly formed subsidiary First Nuclear, targets large-scale hydrogen production to meet the growing electricity demands of AI-driven data centers, which Goldman Sachs predicts will increase data center power consumption by 160% by 2030, potentially accounting for up to 4% of global electricity use. SMRs, producing up to a few hundred megawatts, offer advantages over traditional gigawatt-scale reactors due to their modular, factory-built design that allows easier onsite assembly and installation in diverse locations such as industrial campuses or remote areas. Their simplified, mostly underground construction aims to enhance safety, reduce refueling frequency, and lower upfront costs
energynuclear-energyhydrogen-productionsmall-modular-reactorsclean-energyrenewable-energyAI-data-centersHypersonic leap: China’s zirconium discovery boosts reserve 5-fold
China has discovered a massive new reserve of zirconium-bearing minerals in the northern Tarim Basin of Xinjiang province, estimated to be about four times larger than the country's existing zirconium reserves. This is the first significant onshore zirconium deposit found in China, located in sedimentary layers dating from the Paleogene and Neogene eras. The deposit’s average zircon content exceeds 0.2%, and it can potentially be extracted using less energy-intensive methods than usual. This discovery challenges the prevailing notion that large zirconium deposits are primarily found near coastal areas, opening new avenues for geological exploration inland. Zirconium, primarily extracted from the mineral zircon, is a critical metal used extensively in nuclear reactors, hypersonic vehicles, jet engines, and space shuttle components due to its corrosion resistance, high-temperature stability, and low neutron absorption. Despite its relative abundance in the Earth's crust, refining zirconium is costly and complex. China is already a major global producer alongside Australia, Indonesia, South Africa,
materialszirconiumrare-metalshypersonic-technologynuclear-energyChinamineral-reservesAmazon cloud powers US bid for autonomous next-gen nuclear reactors
Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and Amazon Web Services (AWS) have partnered to leverage AWS’s cloud computing, AI foundation models via Amazon Bedrock, and specialized hardware to advance next-generation autonomous nuclear reactors. The collaboration aims to reduce the cost and time involved in designing, licensing, building, and operating nuclear facilities, with the long-term goal of enabling safe, reliable autonomous operation of advanced reactors to accelerate their deployment. INL will utilize AWS’s AI models and computing power to develop nuclear energy applications, including creating a digital twin—a virtual simulation model—of a small modular reactor (SMR) as a key initial project. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to foster collaboration among government labs, AI firms, and nuclear developers, enhancing reactor safety, efficiency, and responsiveness. The digital twin technology will allow near real-time simulations critical for autonomous control systems. The effort aligns with a growing trend of integrating AI into nuclear energy, exemplified by similar work at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, which
energynuclear-energyautonomous-reactorsAI-in-energycloud-computingdigital-twinsmall-modular-reactorsCFR-1000: China unveils gigawatt-level fast neutron reactor design
China’s National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) has unveiled the design of the CFR-1000, a fourth-generation, gigawatt-level fast neutron reactor capable of producing up to 1.2 gigawatts of power—enough to supply around a million homes. Unlike conventional thermal reactors that use slow neutrons moderated by materials like water, the CFR-1000 employs fast neutrons without moderators, enhancing fuel efficiency and enabling the breeding of new fuel such as plutonium-239 from non-fissile materials. This technology supports closed-loop fuel cycles, potentially reducing nuclear waste and dependence on mined uranium. The reactor uses liquid sodium as a coolant, which allows higher operating temperatures and improved heat transfer, further boosting efficiency. The CFR-1000 is a commercial-scale unit expected to be operational after 2030, possibly by 2034, marking a significant milestone in China’s “three-step” nuclear strategy that progresses from thermal reactors to fast reactors and ultimately fusion reactors. China claims to
energynuclear-energyfast-neutron-reactorCFR-1000China-energy-technologyclean-energyadvanced-nuclear-reactorUS firm's prototype induction pump tech to make nuclear reactors safer
NANO Nuclear Energy, a New York-based firm, has developed a prototype Annular Linear Induction Pump (ALIP) designed to improve thermal management in advanced nuclear reactors, particularly molten salt and liquid-metal reactors. Unlike traditional mechanical pumps, ALIP uses a time-varying magnetic field to move conductive fluids without mechanical components, which reduces wear, maintenance, and increases efficiency. The company has successfully integrated the ALIP technology into a controllable test loop at its Demonstration Facility in Westchester County, New York, marking a significant milestone in validating the pump’s design and performance. The development of ALIP is part of NANO Nuclear’s broader efforts to advance next-generation nuclear reactor technologies, with plans to begin commercial sales by late 2025 or early 2026. Current work focuses on refining the prototype, collecting manufacturing and performance data, and testing the pump with various fluids and failure scenarios. Collaboration with aRobotics Company has supported the fabrication and testing processes under the SBIR Phase III
energynuclear-energyinduction-pumpmolten-salt-reactorelectromagnetic-pumpthermal-managementadvanced-reactors4th-gen nuclear reactors near US launch as advanced fuel line goes live
BWX Technologies (BWXT) has launched a new production line for Uranium Nitride TRISO fuel at its Lynchburg Technology Center in Virginia, marking a significant step toward supporting Generation IV nuclear reactors. The completion of a chemical vapor infiltration furnace enabled the line to become operational, allowing the facility to produce additively manufactured fuel forms with a higher density of TRISO particles per pellet. TRISO fuel particles feature a uranium core surrounded by carbon and silicon carbide layers designed to contain fission products at extremely high temperatures, enhancing fuel efficiency and potentially reducing reactor system costs. This initiative is part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Reactor Demonstration Program (ARDP), which backs BWXT’s BANR high-temperature gas microreactor design. BWXT’s new line focuses on uranium nitride fuel, distinct from its existing uranium oxycarbide TRISO fuel used in the Department of Defense’s Project Pele. The company collaborates with Idaho National Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory to test
energynuclear-energyadvanced-reactorsTRISO-fueladditive-manufacturingmicroreactorsfuel-efficiencyUS uses high-precision 3D printing for Gen IV nuclear reactor parts
The United States is pioneering the use of high-precision 3D printing to create polymer forms for concrete components in advanced nuclear reactors, marking a shift away from traditional steel or wood molds. At Kairos Power’s Oak Ridge campus in Tennessee, these 3D-printed molds are being employed for the Janus shielding demonstration, a test precursor to building parts of the Hermes Low-Power Demonstration Reactor. Hermes is notable as the first advanced reactor to receive a construction permit from the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The printed forms, each about 10 feet square and stacked three high, are used to cast the reactor’s bioshield—a thick concrete structure designed to absorb radiation and protect workers during operation. This additive manufacturing approach offers a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to conventional methods, enabling the construction of complex geometries with high structural integrity under the pressure of wet concrete. The project, a collaboration involving Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), Kairos Power, and the Manufacturing Demonstration Facility (
energynuclear-energy3D-printingadditive-manufacturingadvanced-reactorsconstruction-technologymaterials-engineeringSam Altman-backed Oklo to cool AI data centers with new nuclear tech
Oklo, a nuclear technology company backed by Sam Altman, has partnered with Vertiv, a leader in digital infrastructure, to develop an integrated power and cooling system for hyperscale and colocation data centers. This system will leverage Oklo’s small modular reactors (SMRs) to generate steam and electricity, combined with Vertiv’s thermal management technology, aiming to optimize both power and cooling efficiently and sustainably. The collaboration seeks to address common data center challenges such as high energy demand, reliance on power grids, and environmental impact by providing a reliable, carbon-free energy source that can be located near data centers for improved performance and scalability. The partnership comes amid the rapid growth of AI and high-performance computing, which significantly increases power consumption in data centers. Oklo’s SMRs are designed for flexibility and quick adaptation to changing energy needs, enabling continuous, stable power supply critical for data center operations. By integrating power generation and cooling solutions from the outset, Oklo and Vertiv aim to enhance energy efficiency
energynuclear-energydata-centerscooling-technologysmall-modular-reactorsAI-infrastructurepower-efficiencyUS supercomputer trains AI to for faster nuclear plant licensing
The Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), under the U.S. Department of Energy, has partnered with AI company Atomic Canyon to accelerate the nuclear power plant licensing process using artificial intelligence. This collaboration, formalized at the Nuclear Opportunities Workshop, aims to leverage ORNL’s Frontier supercomputer—the world’s fastest—to train AI models that can efficiently review and analyze the extensive technical documentation required for nuclear licensing. By utilizing high-performance computing and AI-driven simulations, the partnership seeks to both ensure the safety of nuclear plant designs and significantly reduce the traditionally lengthy licensing timelines overseen by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Atomic Canyon developed specialized AI models called FERMI, trained on 53 million pages of nuclear documents from the NRC’s ADAMS database, enabling intelligent search and rapid retrieval of relevant information. This approach is intended to streamline regulatory compliance and reporting, helping meet ambitious government deadlines for new nuclear plant approvals. The initiative reflects a broader resurgence in nuclear energy as a reliable, clean power source,
energynuclear-energyartificial-intelligencesupercomputernuclear-licensinghigh-performance-computingenergy-technologyRussia sets nuclear enrichment record with next-gen centrifuge
Russia’s state nuclear corporation Rosatom, through its fuel division TVEL, has developed a new tenth-generation gas centrifuge, the HZ-10, which sets a record in uranium enrichment efficiency and productivity. This advanced centrifuge surpasses all previous generations used at Rosatom’s facilities and is entering a pilot industrial testing phase before full-scale production. The HZ-10 is expected to significantly enhance the performance of Russia’s uranium enrichment plants, which currently hold over one-third of the global market share. While detailed technical specifications remain undisclosed, the development continues Rosatom’s long-term modernization program aimed at replacing older centrifuge models with more efficient machines like the GC-9+ and now the GC-10. Gas centrifuge technology enriches uranium by spinning uranium hexafluoride gas at high speeds to separate the lighter uranium-235 isotope from the heavier uranium-238. This process increases the uranium-235 concentration from its natural level of 0.7% to the 3.5
energynuclear-energyuranium-enrichmentgas-centrifugeRosatomnuclear-fuel-cycleenergy-technologySlovakia clears 7,400 tons of radioactive waste from Soviet reactors
Slovakia has completed the decommissioning and dismantling of two Soviet-era VVER-440 V1 reactors at the Bohunice nuclear power plant, removing nearly 7,400 tons (6,700 tonnes) of radioactive and contaminated materials. This milestone, confirmed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), marks the end of the main decommissioning phase and clears the site for redevelopment by 2027. The project was carried out by a consortium led by Westinghouse and Slovak firm VUJE under the EBRD-managed Bohunice International Decommissioning Support Fund (BIDSF), which received €638 million (USD 745 million) from the EU and various donor countries. The dismantling involved advanced robotic decontamination and cutting techniques to safely handle both primary and secondary radioactive waste. The two reactors, commissioned in the late 1970s and originally built with Soviet technology and Czechoslovakian assistance, were Slovakia’s first
energynuclear-energyradioactive-wastedecommissioningSlovakianuclear-reactorsenvironmental-cleanupCanada’s nuclear plant to add mighty turbine to power 300,000 homes
The GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy BWRX-300 small modular reactor (SMR) project at Ontario Power Generation’s Darlington Nuclear Generating Station in Canada will feature a key turbine island supplied by Arabelle Solutions, part of the EDF Group. Arabelle is providing the SMR’s nuclear steam turbine, the TOPAIR generator, and an associated heat exchanger. The turbine generator shaftline will be 34 meters long and include a high-pressure module and two low-pressure modules to enhance cycle efficiency. The air-cooled TOPAIR generator is rated up to 370 MVA for the Canadian 60 Hz grid. This equipment is specifically engineered to operate under the BWRX-300’s steam conditions, optimizing plant efficiency and maximizing electrical output. The BWRX-300 reactor is a compact, 300 MWe boiling water reactor designed for efficient and safe operation, including passive cooling for at least seven days without power or operator intervention. It offers a refueling cycle of 12 to
energynuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorturbine-generatorpower-generationclean-energyDarlington-SMRUS next-gen nuclear reactors drive demand for domestic advanced fuel
The United States is advancing its domestic production of advanced nuclear fuel to support the deployment of next-generation nuclear reactors. The Department of Energy (DOE) has launched a pilot program inviting US companies to propose, build, and operate new fuel production facilities. This initiative aims to reduce reliance on imported enriched uranium and critical materials, thereby strengthening national energy security and fostering private sector investment in nuclear energy. Currently, the US lacks sufficient infrastructure to meet the anticipated demand for advanced nuclear fuel, which is crucial for the operation of emerging reactor technologies. To accelerate progress, the DOE is leveraging fast-track authorities similar to those used for testing advanced reactors, with plans to select at least three reactor designs by summer 2025 and achieve nuclear criticality by July 2026. Proposals for fuel production will be evaluated on technological readiness, fabrication plans, and financial viability, with applicants responsible for all associated costs. The expansion of domestic nuclear fuel production aligns with broader US energy and decarbonization goals, as nuclear power provides
energynuclear-energyadvanced-nuclear-fueldomestic-fuel-productionnext-generation-reactorsenergy-securitydecarbonizationMIT model predicts nuclear waste behavior deep underground for eons
MIT researchers, in collaboration with Lawrence Berkeley National Lab and the University of Orléans, have developed a new computational model called CrunchODiTI to improve predictions of nuclear waste behavior in underground repositories over millions of years. This model builds on the existing CrunchFlow software and uniquely incorporates electrostatic effects of negatively charged clay minerals, enabling three-dimensional simulations of radionuclide interactions with engineered barriers made of cement and clay. The research aims to enhance confidence among policymakers and the public regarding the long-term safety of nuclear waste storage. The study’s findings were validated against experimental data from the Mont Terri research site in Switzerland, a key facility known for its extensive datasets on interactions between cement and Opalinus clay—a water-tight claystone used in many geological repositories worldwide. By coupling high-performance computing simulations with real-world experiments, the model addresses previous limitations in understanding how radionuclides migrate through complex underground environments. This advancement supports safer design and assessment of nuclear waste disposal systems, which is increasingly important as global nuclear
nuclear-energynuclear-waste-managementunderground-storagematerials-scienceenvironmental-safetycomputational-modelingradioactive-waste-disposalTrinity test victims to be compensated 80 years after nuclear blast
The article reports that victims of the world’s first nuclear test, the Trinity Test conducted by the U.S. military on July 16, 1945, near New Mexico’s Jornada del Muerto desert, will finally be eligible for compensation after an 80-year wait. Residents near the test site were exposed to harmful radiation without warning or evacuation, leading to widespread health issues, including cancer. Although the Radiation Exposure Compensation Act (RECA) was established in 1990 to compensate individuals affected by nuclear testing and uranium mining, it initially excluded those impacted by the Trinity Test fallout and residents of Navajo lands. Recent revisions to RECA, included in a Republican tax bill signed by former President Trump just before the test’s 80th anniversary, now extend compensation eligibility to these New Mexico victims and uranium miners who supplied material for the bomb. The reauthorization of RECA on July 3 also extended the RECA Trust Fund and expanded claimant eligibility categories, which now include uranium miners, millers
energynuclear-energyradiation-exposureuranium-miningnuclear-weaponsnuclear-testingcompensation-lawGoogle and Westinghouse use AI to automate nuclear construction
Westinghouse Electric Company and Google Cloud have partnered to accelerate nuclear reactor construction by integrating AI technologies. Westinghouse’s proprietary AI platforms, HiVE and bertha, are combined with Google Cloud’s Vertex AI, Gemini, and BigQuery to autonomously generate and optimize modular work packages for advanced reactors, particularly the AP1000® modular reactors. This collaboration leverages extensive nuclear industry data and cutting-edge generative AI to streamline complex engineering workflows, aiming to reduce the traditionally labor-intensive construction process and enhance operational efficiency across existing nuclear plants. HiVE, introduced in 2024, is a nuclear-specific generative AI system built on over 70 years of proprietary data, while bertha, a large language model named after Westinghouse’s first female engineer, focuses on reactor lifecycle tasks such as maintenance and inspections. The partnership has already demonstrated success through a proof of concept using Westinghouse’s WNEXUS digital plant design platform, showing the potential for AI to transform nuclear construction into a
energynuclear-energyartificial-intelligencemodular-reactorsGoogle-CloudWestinghouseAI-automationChina produces first barrel from its largest natural uranium project
China has produced its first barrel of natural uranium from its largest domestic project, the "National No 1 Uranium" demonstration project, located in the Ordos basin of Inner Mongolia. This milestone, announced by China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC), marks a significant advancement in unlocking complex sandstone uranium deposits that were previously considered too difficult to develop. Utilizing advanced in situ leaching technology, the project exemplifies a “green, safe, intelligent and efficient” mining approach, supporting China’s goals for enhanced energy security and a greener nuclear power sector. This development represents a strategic shift in China’s uranium production from traditional volcanic and granite deposits in Jiangxi province to the northern regions, particularly Inner Mongolia, where large sandstone-type uranium deposits have been discovered over the past two decades. Unlike richer granite deposits, these sandstone deposits have lower uranium concentrations and were previously uneconomical to exploit. The new in situ leaching method injects a carbon dioxide-oxygen aqueous solution underground to dissolve uranium, which is then pumped
energyuranium-miningnuclear-energyin-situ-leachingChina-energy-securitygreen-technologyadvanced-mining-technologyClinch River site set for first-ever US SMR as NRC begins review
The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has become the first U.S. utility to apply for a construction permit for GE Vernova Hitachi Nuclear Energy’s (GEH) BWRX-300 small modular reactor (SMR) technology. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) has accepted TVA’s application to build a 300 MWe BWRX-300 reactor at the Clinch River site in Tennessee, marking a significant milestone as the first utility-led SMR project in the country. The NRC aims to complete its review within 17 months, and TVA may begin preliminary site preparation as early as next year. The Clinch River site already holds an early site permit, confirming its suitability from safety, environmental, and emergency planning perspectives. The BWRX-300 design is a water-cooled, natural circulation SMR with passive safety features, based on the licensed ESBWR boiling water reactor, and is the only boiling water SMR under development in the U.S. Its modular
energysmall-modular-reactorsnuclear-energyTVABWRX-300nuclear-powerenergy-securityWind Farms Outlast Expectations: Longevity Matches Nuclear - CleanTechnica
The article challenges the common assertion by nuclear energy proponents that nuclear power plants have a significant advantage over wind farms in terms of operational lifespan. While nuclear reactors typically have licensed lifespans of 40 to 60 years, often extended to 80 years, recent developments in wind energy demonstrate that wind farms can match or even exceed these durations. A notable example is Denmark’s Middelgrunden offshore wind farm, initially expected to operate for 25 years but recently granted a 25-year extension without major equipment replacement, effectively doubling its lifespan to 50 years. Other Danish wind farms like Nysted and Samsø have also received operational extensions, with potential for further life prolongation. In addition to lifespan extensions through maintenance and inspections, the practice of repowering—replacing older turbines with fewer, larger, and more efficient ones—significantly enhances the longevity and output of wind farms. The Ovenden Moor wind farm in the UK exemplifies this, having increased its electricity production by 2
energywind-energynuclear-energyrenewable-energyoffshore-wind-farmsenergy-longevityclean-energyDanish firm's 100 MW thorium molten salt reactors get funding boost
Danish company Copenhagen Atomics has received a significant funding boost from the European Innovation Council (EIC), securing a $3 million grant and access to $17 million in potential equity to advance its thorium molten salt reactor (MSR) technology. Their innovative "Onion Core" design features a compact, containerized reactor engineered for factory mass production, aiming to deliver scalable, clean energy globally. Operating at atmospheric pressure with thorium-based liquid fuel and heavy water moderation, each 100 MWth unit can also utilize recycled nuclear waste, addressing both energy production and long-term nuclear waste management challenges. The company has made notable progress, having built and tested two full-scale non-fission prototypes and key components that have accumulated over 10,000 operating days. The new funding will support the construction of a third prototype and preparation for the first nuclear fission test in partnership with Switzerland’s Paul Scherrer Institute. Copenhagen Atomics plans to have its first commercial reactor operational by 2028, with a
energynuclear-energythorium-reactormolten-salt-reactorclean-energysustainable-energyenergy-innovationMeta inks 20-year deal with Clinton nuclear plant to fuel data centers
Meta has signed a 20-year virtual power purchase agreement (PPA) with Constellation Energy to secure emissions-free electricity from the Clinton Clean Energy Center, a nuclear plant in Illinois. Starting in 2027, this deal will support Meta’s expanding energy needs for AI and data centers by providing reliable, carbon-free power. The agreement extends the plant’s operational life through at least 2047, increases its capacity by 30 megawatts, preserves over 1,100 local jobs, and contributes approximately $13.5 million annually in local tax revenue. Constellation is also exploring the addition of small modular reactors at the site to further boost capacity. This deal aligns with Meta’s broader strategy to triple its use of nuclear energy over the next decade, as outlined in its December 2024 Request for Proposals targeting 1 to 4 gigawatts of new nuclear capacity by the early 2030s. Meta emphasizes nuclear power’s role as a stable, firm energy source
energynuclear-energydata-centersclean-energyartificial-intelligencepower-purchase-agreementrenewable-energyUS nuclear tech could cut radioactive waste, power deep space trips
The Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), in partnership with SHINE Technologies, has developed an advanced chemical recycling process for spent nuclear fuel that could significantly reduce radioactive waste and support deep space missions. Utilizing equipment such as centrifugal contactors—which spin liquids to separate materials by density—and 3D-printed parts for rapid prototyping, the team aims to create a cost-effective, scalable solution for industrial nuclear fuel recycling. This approach focuses on extracting valuable resources from used fuel, over 95% of which still contains untapped energy, thereby enhancing fuel recovery, reducing long-term waste, and promoting a sustainable nuclear energy cycle. Key challenges addressed include the intense radioactivity and heat of spent fuel, requiring stringent safety measures and “safeguards by design” to prevent illicit access and ensure regulatory compliance. The process also prioritizes economic feasibility by targeting commercial demand for recovered materials, such as recycled fuel and radioisotopes that can power advanced reactors, medical diagnostics, and deep-space missions. Researchers simulate
energynuclear-energyradioactive-waste-recyclingdeep-space-powersustainable-energynuclear-fuel-recoveryadvanced-nuclear-technologyFrance’s uranium waste sparks crisis at Armenia-Azerbaijan flashpoint
The article reports on a controversy involving France’s state-owned nuclear company Orano, which is accused of transferring uranium-containing radioactive waste to Armenia near the Armenia-Azerbaijan border. The waste shipments began in June 2025 and were deposited in Dilijan National Park, a protected area in the Armenian highlands that lies within a seismic zone and is close to the headwaters of rivers flowing into Azerbaijan. Environmental groups, particularly the Environmental Protection First (EPF) Coalition, have condemned the move as an “ecological war against Azerbaijan,” warning that any leakage could severely impact public health, biodiversity, and water security in the downstream Azerbaijani districts. The radioactive waste reportedly originated from Orano’s previous storage partner in Siberia, but geopolitical tensions and sanctions cut access to Russian facilities, prompting France to seek new disposal options. The deal with Armenia allegedly followed Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan’s visit to Paris in early 2025, accompanied by controversial financial donations to a foundation led by
energynuclear-wasteradioactive-materialsenvironmental-impacturaniumwaste-managementnuclear-energyAtomic energy chief warns Iran could restart enriching uranium soon
The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Rafael Grossi, warned that Iran could resume uranium enrichment within months despite recent Israeli and U.S. airstrikes targeting its nuclear facilities. While these attacks reportedly caused significant damage and set back Iran’s nuclear program by 5 to 8 years, Grossi emphasized that critical components of Iran’s nuclear infrastructure remain intact. He noted that Iran may have relocated some enriched uranium stockpiles prior to the strikes and that the country’s nuclear knowledge and industrial base have not been destroyed. Additionally, the IAEA has found traces of enriched uranium at undeclared sites, which Iran has yet to explain satisfactorily. Grossi cautioned against simplistic intelligence assessments claiming short-term setbacks, arguing that Iran’s technical capacity to restart enrichment is largely preserved. He highlighted concerns over an estimated 900 pounds of uranium enriched to about 60 percent—enough, if further refined, to produce roughly nine nuclear weapons. The situation is complicated by Iran’s suspension of
energynuclear-energyuranium-enrichmentIran-nuclear-programIAEAnuclear-facilitiesatomic-energyConstruction starts on UK's biggest, most advanced nuclear submarine
Construction has commenced on the UK’s most advanced nuclear-powered attack submarine, the SSN-AUKUS, marking a significant step in the nation’s defense capabilities under the AUKUS partnership with Australia and the US. The London-based defense firm Babcock has secured key contracts to build components for this new class of conventionally-armed submarines, which are set to replace the current Astute-class vessels starting in the late 2030s. The program envisions building up to 12 SSN-AUKUS submarines, representing a major expansion of the UK’s submarine fleet and industrial capacity, particularly at the Barrow and Raynesway shipyards. Babcock’s involvement includes delivering weapon handling and launch systems, integrated tube hulls, and technical support for the Tomahawk missile, leveraging its extensive experience in submarine manufacturing and integration. The program aligns with a broader £15 billion government investment in the UK’s sovereign warhead program and aims to enhance Britain’s deterrence and defense
energynuclear-energysubmarine-technologydefense-technologyadvanced-manufacturingmilitary-materialsUK-defense-industryUS strikes delayed Iran's nuclear ambition by years, confirms Tehran
The article reports that recent coordinated U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on June 21, 2025, severely damaged Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, setting back its nuclear program by an estimated five to eight years. The strikes, part of "Operation Midnight Hammer," targeted Iran’s most fortified nuclear sites—the Fordow Fuel Enrichment Plant, Natanz Nuclear Facility, and Isfahan Nuclear Technology Center—using U.S. B-2 bombers equipped with GBU-57 bunker buster bombs. Despite initial Iranian downplaying, Tehran has since acknowledged “excessive and serious” damage to its nuclear facilities, though it refuses to resume nuclear talks and hints at a new diplomatic approach without providing details. U.S. officials, including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, have dismissed earlier reports minimizing the strike’s impact, confirming that the operation was highly effective and monitored in real-time to prevent any pre-strike movement of nuclear materials. The strike marks the largest U.S. military action against
energynuclear-energyIran-nuclear-programmilitary-strikebunker-buster-bombsnuclear-facilitiesinternational-atomic-energy-agencyClean Energy Experts Say It’s Time To Move Beyond LCOE - CleanTechnica
A recent report from the Clean Air Task Force (CATF) argues that the Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), long used as the primary metric for comparing clean energy technologies, is now insufficient for guiding investment and policy decisions in today’s rapidly evolving energy landscape. While LCOE is simple and standardized, it fails to capture critical system-level costs such as grid integration, storage, curtailment, and reliability challenges associated with variable renewable energy sources like wind and solar. As electrification and peak demand grow, relying solely on LCOE risks misdirecting investments, delaying decarbonization, and increasing long-term energy costs. The report highlights the value of clean firm power technologies—such as advanced nuclear, geothermal, long-duration storage, and carbon-capture-equipped combustion—that provide reliable, on-demand electricity regardless of weather or time. For example, Ontario’s approval of a small modular nuclear reactor (SMR) project demonstrates that despite a higher LCOE, clean firm power
energyclean-energyelectricity-decarbonizationrenewable-energyenergy-storagegrid-reliabilitynuclear-energyEinstein’s atom bomb letter up for auction amid Israel-Iran tension
The article discusses a historically significant letter written by Albert Einstein titled “On My Participation in the Atom Bomb Project,” which is now up for auction amid current Israel-Iran tensions. Originally penned in German and later translated into English with Einstein’s help in 1953, the letter was addressed to a Japanese journalist who questioned Einstein’s involvement in the atomic bomb’s development despite its destructive potential. In the letter, Einstein expresses deep regret over his role, clarifying that his only direct involvement was signing a 1939 letter to then-US President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This letter warned of Nazi Germany’s efforts to develop nuclear weapons and urged the US to investigate the feasibility of atomic bombs, which eventually led to the Manhattan Project. Einstein emphasizes the “dreadful danger for all mankind” posed by nuclear weapons and reveals that his decision to support the letter was driven by fear that Nazi Germany would succeed first. A committed pacifist, he advocates for global disarmament and warns that escalating armaments
energyatomic-bombnuclear-energyManhattan-ProjectAlbert-Einsteinnuclear-weaponsnuclear-chain-reactionNuclear construction: Palantir partners to help make safer reactors
Palantir Technologies Inc. has partnered with The Nuclear Company to develop NOS, an AI-driven software platform aimed at streamlining nuclear construction projects. Built on Palantir’s Foundry platform, NOS seeks to address common challenges in nuclear plant construction such as budget overruns and schedule delays by providing enhanced schedule certainty, cost savings through supply chain optimization, problem prevention, and regulatory confidence. Palantir is set to receive about $100 million over five years to develop this system, which aligns with recent U.S. government initiatives to expand nuclear energy production. These initiatives include executive orders from former President Trump aimed at accelerating nuclear facility approvals and meeting ambitious goals of 400 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2050 and 10 large reactors under construction by 2030. The partnership reflects a broader vision to revitalize nuclear energy as a critical component of America’s energy security and infrastructure. Jonathan Webb, CEO of The Nuclear Company, emphasized the mission to build nuclear power rapidly, safely, and at
energynuclear-energyPalantirAI-softwarenuclear-constructionenergy-infrastructureenergy-securityBreakthrough cladding tech promises longer life for US nuclear fuel
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS), a San Diego-based firm, has made a significant breakthrough in nuclear fuel cladding technology with its Silicon Carbide (SiC) composite material called SiGA. This multilayer composite cladding can withstand temperatures up to 3,452°F (1900°C), which is six times hotter than the conditions in current light-water, pressurized water reactors. The SiGA cladding features a patented localized SiC joining method that creates gas-tight, hermetic seals without exposing nuclear fuel pellets to high-temperature water, enhancing stability during temperature cycling and reducing manufacturing time. Fuel cladding serves as a critical barrier between nuclear fuel pellets and reactor coolant, ensuring safety and operational integrity. GA-EMS has demonstrated that its SiGA cladding exhibits superior high-temperature and irradiation resistance, verified through testing at Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Westinghouse’s reactor coolant test facility. After 180 days of exposure to corrosive water coolant, the SiC joints remained
energynuclear-energysilicon-carbidefuel-claddinghigh-temperature-materialsreactor-safetycomposite-materialsUS strikes spared Iran’s nuclear reactors, satellite images reveal
Recent satellite images and reports reveal that U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, conducted during Operation Midnight Hammer, caused significant damage but notably spared Iran’s most sensitive nuclear reactors. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that three key reactors at the Isfahan Nuclear Technology and Research Centre, including a Chinese-built miniature neutron source reactor using highly enriched uranium, remained undamaged. Officials suggest this was a deliberate decision by military planners to avoid potentially catastrophic radioactive leaks and global precedent from hitting operational reactors. The IAEA has raised concerns about the difficulty of monitoring Iran’s nuclear program amid ongoing military actions and is pressing Iran to disclose the locations of its enriched uranium stockpiles. Satellite imagery shows that the Fordow enrichment facility, built into a mountain near Tehran, sustained heavy damage with multiple large craters and blocked tunnel entrances, though the extent of internal damage remains uncertain. Experts note ambiguity over whether some damage was caused by strikes or preemptive Iranian measures. Overall, while the
energynuclear-energyuranium-enrichmentnuclear-reactorssatellite-imageryinternational-atomic-energy-agencyIran-nuclear-programFinland approves ‘world’s simplest’ nuclear reactor concept for safety
Finland’s Radiation and Nuclear Safety Authority (STUK) has approved the concept assessment of Steady Energy’s LDR-50 small modular reactor (SMR), deeming it fit to generate nuclear energy and meet Finland’s nuclear safety requirements. Although not legally required, Steady Energy requested this assessment to align with anticipated future regulations. The approval supports the company’s development timeline and plans to build a full-scale pilot plant inside a former coal-fired power station in Helsinki, which will demonstrate key safety features without using nuclear fuel. An international regulatory review will follow, leveraging STUK’s findings, as Steady Energy expands its agreements for 15 reactors in Finland and plans growth into Sweden and the Baltics. The LDR-50 reactor is distinct from typical SMRs as it produces only heat, not electricity, generating up to 50 MW of thermal power at 150°C. This heat can be used for district heating, industrial steam, and desalination, with a simplified pressurized light water reactor
energynuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorSMRdistrict-heatingclean-energysustainable-energyNew evidence suggests Israel’s nuclear power may be underestimated
New evidence indicates that Israel’s nuclear arsenal may be significantly larger than previously believed, potentially comprising 200 to 300 warheads—about three times the widely accepted estimate of around 90. This reassessment is based on new analyses of Israel’s plutonium stockpile, production capacity, and satellite imagery of the Dimona nuclear facility. Experts estimate that Israel has produced between 750 and 1,110 kilograms of separated plutonium since the late 1960s, sufficient for 187 to 277 nuclear weapons depending on design. Israel maintains a policy of “nuclear ambiguity,” neither confirming nor denying its nuclear capabilities, and has historically conducted preemptive strikes to prevent regional adversaries from acquiring nuclear weapons. Amid escalating tensions with Iran, including Israel’s recent Operation Rising Lion targeting Iranian nuclear sites and Iran’s retaliatory missile and drone attacks, Israel’s nuclear capabilities have become a critical factor in regional security. Israel is believed to possess a full nuclear triad—land-based ballistic missiles (
energynuclear-powernuclear-weaponsnuclear-arsenalnuclear-proliferationnuclear-energynuclear-strategyNvidia joins Gates-backed nuclear startup to power AI’s energy needs
Nvidia has invested in TerraPower, a nuclear energy company founded by Bill Gates, through its venture arm NVentures as part of a $650 million funding round. This strategic move aims to address the rapidly growing energy demands of AI-driven data centers, whose electricity consumption is expected to more than double by 2030. TerraPower develops advanced small modular reactors (SMRs), including its flagship Natrium project in Wyoming, which features a 345-megawatt sodium-cooled fast reactor paired with a gigawatt-scale molten salt energy storage system. This design allows for flexible, carbon-free power generation that can complement intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar. TerraPower is progressing toward commercial operation of the Natrium plant by 2030, with non-nuclear construction already underway. The company has also signed a memorandum of understanding with Sabey Data Centers to explore supplying nuclear energy directly to the data center industry, marking a significant early collaboration between advanced nuclear developers and major tech infrastructure operators.
energynuclear-energyAI-energy-needsTerraPowersmall-modular-reactorsdata-centerscarbon-free-energySweden team tests 100 rare nuclei to unlock nuclear fission secrets
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden conducted an experimental study using a large superconducting magnet to investigate nuclear fission in 100 exotic nuclei, including elements like platinum, mercury, and lead. Their goal was to better understand the fission process, which is fundamental both for improving cleaner nuclear energy generation and for insights into element formation in the universe. Nuclear fission typically produces asymmetric fragments—unequal in size and mass—due to the nuclear shell structure, where certain numbers of protons and neutrons confer greater stability. However, prior research focused mainly on a limited set of long-lived isotopes, leaving the fission behavior of many exotic, short-lived nuclei poorly understood. The team specifically studied nuclei with more protons than neutrons to identify which shell effects cause the nucleus to split asymmetrically into a lighter and a heavier fragment. Their surprising finding was that the enhanced stability of the smaller fission fragment is linked to a specific proton number—36—indicating a previously un
energynuclear-fissionnuclear-energyclean-energyradioactive-wastesmall-modular-reactorsmicroreactorsUS fast-tracks nuclear reactor testing to catch up with China’s boom
The United States Department of Energy (DOE) has launched a pilot program to accelerate the testing and commercial licensing of advanced nuclear reactors, aiming to catch up with China’s rapid nuclear energy expansion. This initiative, authorized under President Donald Trump’s executive order on reforming nuclear reactor testing, allows private companies to construct and operate test reactors outside national laboratories. The program seeks to streamline development by requiring applicants to demonstrate technological readiness, financial viability, and a plan to achieve reactor criticality by July 4, 2026. Selected companies will bear all costs related to design, construction, operation, and decommissioning, with applications due by July 21, 2025. This move is part of a broader effort to boost American innovation in nuclear technology, enhance economic growth, and strengthen national security. It builds on existing DOE and Department of Defense projects involving microreactors and advanced reactor demonstrations. The urgency stems from China’s aggressive nuclear expansion, which includes 102 reactors operating, under construction, or approved
energynuclear-energyadvanced-reactorsDOEnuclear-reactor-testingenergy-policyclean-energyPro-Israel hacktivist group claims responsibility for alleged Iranian bank hack
The pro-Israel hacktivist group Predatory Sparrow (also known as Gonjeshke Darande) claimed responsibility for a cyberattack that allegedly targeted and disrupted Iran’s Bank Sepah. The group stated on social media platform X that they destroyed data belonging to Bank Sepah, which they accuse of helping the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) circumvent international sanctions and finance Iran’s ballistic missile, nuclear, and proxy activities. Reports from Iran International indicated widespread banking disruptions, including branch closures and customers being unable to access accounts, with images circulating of ATMs displaying error messages. However, TechCrunch was unable to independently verify the attack, and Bank Sepah and its affiliates did not respond to requests for comment. This alleged cyberattack occurs amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, following Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites. Predatory Sparrow is believed to be a pro-Israel or anti-Iran hacktivist group with a history of targeting Iranian infrastructure, including steel plants
energycybersecuritycyberattackhacktivistIrannuclear-energyindustrial-disruptionPro-Israel hacktivist group claims reponsibility for alleged Iranian bank hack
The pro-Israel hacktivist group Predatory Sparrow, also known by its Persian name Gonjeshke Darande, claimed responsibility for a cyberattack that allegedly targeted and disrupted Iran’s Bank Sepah. The group stated that their attack destroyed data belonging to Bank Sepah, which they accused of helping the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) circumvent international sanctions and finance Iran’s terrorist proxies, ballistic missile program, and military nuclear efforts. Following the claim, reports emerged of widespread banking disruptions in Iran, including closed Bank Sepah branches and customers being unable to access their accounts, with ATMs reportedly displaying error messages. However, independent verification of the cyberattack remains unavailable, and attempts to contact Bank Sepah and Predatory Sparrow for confirmation were unsuccessful. This alleged cyberattack occurs amid escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, with both countries reportedly conducting strikes against each other’s military and nuclear infrastructure. While the exact identity of Predatory Sparrow remains unclear, cybersecurity experts consider the group credible based
energycybersecuritycyberattacknuclear-energyindustrial-disruptionhacktivismIranSenate GOP bill spares nuclear and geothermal energy while hammering wind and solar
Senate Republicans have introduced a budget reconciliation bill that significantly scales back renewable energy incentives established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), particularly targeting solar, wind, and hydrogen energy. The bill proposes ending residential solar tax credits within 180 days of enactment and disqualifying solar leasing companies from receiving credits, which would severely impact the residential solar market. Commercial wind and solar projects would face a shortened timeline for tax credits, with full credits only available for projects starting within six months of the bill’s signing and phased reductions thereafter, disappearing entirely after 2027. Hydrogen tax credits would also end this year, creating additional challenges for hydrogen startups. In contrast, the bill largely spares geothermal, nuclear, hydropower, and long-duration energy storage technologies, with only slight extensions to their tax credit phase-outs. Carbon capture incentives would be modified to eliminate distinctions based on the use of captured carbon, making all projects eligible for the same credit level. Notably, the inclusion of long-duration energy storage could
energyrenewable-energysolar-powerwind-energynuclear-energygeothermal-energyenergy-policyChina makes Yttrium-90 radioisotope in commercial nuclear reactor
China has successfully produced Yttrium-90 (Y-90) radioisotope using a commercial heavy-water nuclear reactor at the Qinshan Nuclear Power Plant in Zhejiang province. This marks the first time China has domestically manufactured Y-90 glass microspheres at scale, a significant advancement in the country’s isotope production capabilities. The China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) confirmed that the first batch of Y-90 microspheres met all quality standards, enabling large-scale, continuous production. Previously, China relied entirely on imports for this critical isotope used in cancer therapy, presenting challenges for patients. Yttrium-90 microspheres are a key component in transarterial radioembolization (TARE), a minimally invasive treatment for mid-to-late stage liver cancer. The microspheres deliver targeted beta radiation directly to liver tumors via the hepatic artery, destroying cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue due to their limited radiation penetration. The Qinshan team, collaborating with multiple research groups, leveraged the
energynuclear-energyradioisotopesyttrium-90cancer-treatmentnuclear-medicineisotope-productionIran's nuclear, military sites hit by 200 Israeli jets, IDF claims
Israel launched a large-scale airstrike against Iran on Thursday night and Friday morning, deploying over 200 fighter jets to target more than 100 nuclear and military sites, including the Natanz nuclear facility. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed the strikes hit the "heart" of Iran’s nuclear program, aiming to disrupt Tehran’s production of enriched uranium, which Israel says is bringing Iran closer to developing nuclear weapons. Iranian state media reported significant casualties, including the deaths of Hossein Salami, chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, and six nuclear scientists, though these claims have not been independently verified. Iran denied any radiation increase at Natanz and stated that the Bushehr nuclear power plant was not targeted. The strikes occurred amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran, with the sixth round scheduled in Muscat, Oman. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently accused Iran of breaching its non-proliferation obligations by failing to disclose details about undeclared nuclear material
energynuclear-energymilitary-technologydronesdefense-systemsuranium-enrichmentMiddle-East-conflictStandard Nuclear emerges from the ashes of a failed startup
Standard Nuclear has launched with $42 million in funding to develop advanced nuclear fuel, building upon assets acquired from the bankruptcy of Ultra Safe Nuclear Corporation (USNC) for $28 million. The new company’s CEO, Kurt Terrani, was formerly USNC’s vice president. The funding round was led by Decisive Point, with participation from Andreessen Horowitz and others. Standard Nuclear has secured $100 million in non-binding fuel sales projected for 2027 and is collaborating with customers such as Nano Nuclear Energy and Radiant Industries. The company acknowledges that acquiring USNC’s assets accelerated its timeline. USNC had focused on commercializing TRISO fuel—uranium pellets coated with carbon- and ceramic-based layers—which is considered safer and more meltdown-resistant than traditional nuclear fuel, though it has not been widely used since its development in the 1950s. USNC’s history was marked by a broad and ambitious business model, including two reactor designs, nuclear propulsion, and spacecraft heating systems, but it was primarily funded by a single investor, Richard Hollis Helms, who invested over $100 million plus loans. Helms, a former CIA Arabist, founded USNC after retiring from intelligence work. Despite efforts to raise more capital in 2022, USNC struggled financially and declared bankruptcy in October 2024 amid mounting debts and payroll issues. Standard Nuclear, led by Decisive Point founder Thomas Hendrix, purchased USNC’s fuel-related assets in a bankruptcy auction completed in February 2025, establishing its operational base and continuing the development of TRISO fuel technology.
energynuclear-energyadvanced-nuclear-fuelTRISO-fuelstartup-fundingnuclear-materialsnuclear-reactorsChernobyl: Once a nuclear disaster, could turn into a tourism hub
Ukraine is pursuing a post-war restoration plan to transform the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone and the nearby city of Slavutych into sustainable international tourism and education hubs. This initiative aims to preserve the legacy of the 1986 nuclear disaster while fostering economic renewal in a region affected by both the nuclear catastrophe and recent conflict. Authorities from the Chernobyl Nuclear Power Plant and Slavutych have signed a memorandum to promote tourism that emphasizes nuclear safety, environmental recovery, and human resilience. The plan is part of Ukraine’s broader strategy to convert decades of hardship into opportunities for learning, progress, and global collaboration. Slavutych, built to house workers evacuated from Pripyat after the disaster, remains closely tied to Chernobyl’s history. The Exclusion Zone, once deemed uninhabitable due to radiation, had become a growing tourist destination before the 2022 Russian invasion, which temporarily halted visits and caused damage to critical infrastructure like the New Safe Confinement structure. Despite these challenges, Ukraine is committed to reopening the area with a focus on sustainable tourism that includes new visitor centers, improved transport, and guided tours highlighting both the environmental impact and the surprising resurgence of wildlife in the zone. Investments in Slavutych’s infrastructure, including hotel expansion, aim to support international visitors and underscore Ukraine’s resilience and recovery.
energynuclear-energyChernobylnuclear-disastersustainable-tourismenvironmental-recoveryradiation-safetyRenewables Surge in South Korea as New Government Charts Electrified Future - CleanTechnica
South Korea’s new government has initiated a significant policy shift toward an electrified, decarbonized energy future, emphasizing a pragmatic and economically strategic expansion of renewable energy. The plan maintains nuclear power at current levels to provide stable baseload electricity while accelerating the phase-out of coal. This approach addresses South Korea’s historical vulnerability due to its heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels—over 90% of its energy needs—which exposed the country to geopolitical risks and price volatility. The government’s vision centers on leveraging domestic renewable resources, particularly offshore wind and solar photovoltaic (PV) power, to reduce dependence on imports and environmental impacts. The envisioned energy system aims to deliver approximately 924 terawatt-hours (TWh) annually—matching current energy service levels but with far greater efficiency and lower emissions. Offshore wind is poised to be the cornerstone of this transformation, capitalizing on South Korea’s favorable maritime geography, especially in the Yellow Sea and near Jeju Island, where strong, stable winds can generate hundreds of TWh per year. This shift also aligns with industrial policy by enabling major shipbuilding companies like Hyundai Heavy Industries and Doosan to transition into offshore wind turbine manufacturing, promising significant economic benefits. Solar PV complements offshore wind by focusing on rooftop installations and floating solar farms, addressing land constraints while expanding renewable capacity. Overall, South Korea’s energy transition reflects a balanced, economically grounded strategy that integrates renewables and nuclear power to enhance energy security, reduce emissions, and foster industrial innovation. While nuclear remains a key baseload source, the emphasis on offshore wind and solar PV marks a decisive move away from fossil fuels, aiming for a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable energy system.
energyrenewable-energySouth-Koreaelectrificationoffshore-windsolar-photovoltaicnuclear-energyVanguard-Class: Britain’s Silent Nuclear Guardians
The Vanguard-class nuclear submarines are central to the United Kingdom’s continuous at-sea nuclear deterrent, operating covertly beneath the ocean’s surface. Each submarine is equipped with up to 16 Trident II D5 ballistic missiles, which have long-range precision strike capabilities. At any given time, at least one Vanguard-class submarine is on active patrol, ensuring an uninterrupted and stealthy nuclear deterrent presence worldwide. Commissioned in the 1990s, the Vanguard-class remains a vital component of the UK’s national defense strategy. Although these submarines are scheduled to be replaced by the next-generation Dreadnought-class within the next decade, they continue to serve as the backbone of Britain’s nuclear deterrent, maintaining a continuous and covert operational posture across global waters.
energynuclear-energysubmarine-technologydefense-technologymilitary-materialsnuclear-deterrentballistic-missilesLet’s Talk About Small Modular Reactors - CleanTechnica
nuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorsclean-technologyrenewable-energyenergy-productionclimate-changeelectricity-generationWorld’s first mass-produced nuclear reactor to enter testing in US
nuclear-energymicroreactorsenergy-innovationmodular-reactorsportable-energy-solutionsadvanced-nuclear-technologyrenewable-energyGoogle backs 1800 MW nuclear power for data centers in US push
nuclear-energydata-centersenergy-demandadvanced-reactorsGoogleElementlsite-developmentUkraine plans a small nuclear reactor in Chernobyl exclusion zone
nuclear-energysmall-modular-reactorsChernobylenergy-needsUkrainepower-generationradiation-managementLaser-powered fusion experiment more than doubles its power output
energyfusionnuclear-energypower-outputlaser-technologyinertial-confinementclimate-technologyChuyên gia hạt nhân Dubna làm việc với Viện Năng lượng Nguyên tử Việt Nam
energynuclear-energyVietnamcollaborationatomic-energysustainable-developmentenergy-policy'Việt Nam tiến tới làm chủ công nghệ năng lượng hạt nhân'
energynuclear-energygreen-energyenergy-technologyenergy-policyVietnam-energyatomic-energyTham khảo một số Luật Năng lượng Nguyên tử trên thế giới
energynuclear-energyenergy-policyenergy-regulationclean-energyenergy-securityatomic-energyNăng lượng Nhật Bản kỳ 86 Nhân lực điện hạt nhân của các nước đi đầu và vấn đề của Việt Nam
energynuclear-energyrenewable-energycarbon-reductionbiodieselJapan-energy-policyenergy-transitionLò phản ứng Trung Quốc lập kỷ lục hoạt động lâu nhất
energynuclear-energyCANDU-reactorcarbon-emissions-reductionpower-generationrenewable-energyenergy-efficiencyTrao đổi của EVN về điều chỉnh giá điện tháng 5 2025 và các tác động đến từng nhóm khách hàng
energyelectricity-pricingnuclear-energyEVNenergy-policyconsumer-impactenergy-regulationBàn về Dự thảo Luật Năng lượng Nguyên tử Việt Nam sửa đổi
energynuclear-energyenergy-policyVietnamsafety-regulationsenergy-lawatomic-energyTầm nhìn chính sách năng lượng Việt Nam Tham khảo gợi ý của chuyên gia quốc tế
energyrenewable-energyenergy-policysustainable-developmentVietnam-energynuclear-energyclimate-changeNhững điểm mới quan trọng tại Dự thảo Luật Năng lượng nguyên tử sửa đổi
energynuclear-energyenergy-policysafety-regulationssustainable-energyenergy-strategyatomic-energyKế hoạch giảm lệ thuộc nước ngoài về nhiên liệu hạt nhân của Hoa Kỳ
energynuclear-energyuranium-enrichmentrenewable-energyenergy-supply-chainsustainable-developmentenergy-policyStates and Startups Are Suing the US Nuclear Regulatory Commission
nuclear-energyregulatory-challengesstartupslawsuitsUS-Nuclear-Regulatory-Commissionsmall-reactorstechnology-innovation