U.S. Produces Samples of Next-Generation Enriched Uranium Nuclear Fuel
Yesterday, 29 July, Lightbridge Corporation announced the production of uranium–zirconium alloy samples matching the composition of the fuel planned for use in commercial power units.
The samples known as “coupon samples” were made from enriched uranium with zirconium using the company’s proprietary technology. This process had previously been successfully tested at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) using depleted uranium.
The development of the new Lightbridge Fuel type is focused on use in power reactors with light-water and heavy-water cooling. This technology is expected to enhance reactor safety and economic efficiency, as well as reduce the risks of nuclear material proliferation.
The enriched samples have now been sent for irradiation testing in the Advanced Test Reactor at the INL laboratory. The results obtained will form an important part of the licensing documents and fuel commercialization.
In addition, Lightbridge Fuel is also being developed for potential use in small modular reactors.