Q: What safety features are integrated into your microreactor technology to ensure reliability and safety?

JW: Our microreactor technology incorporates multiple safety features to ensure reliability and safety. These include passive safety systems, such as passive cooling mechanisms that use natural circulation and convection to manage heat without relying on active mechanical components or external power. Additionally, gravity-driven shutdown mechanisms automatically insert control rods into the reactor core if power fails, ensuring safe shutdown. Inherent safety features include a negative temperature coefficient that reduces reactivity and power as temperature increases, preventing overheating.

The reactor core is also designed to self-regulate its power based on thermal expansion. Robust containment systems include double-walled containment and high-strength, leak-proof vessels to prevent the release of radioactive materials. Advanced control systems include redundant and diverse control systems to ensure safe operation even if one fails, and automated monitoring continuously monitors reactor parameters to detect and address deviations. Radiation shielding is provided by thick biological shields made of materials such as concrete, lead, or specialized composites to shield against radiation.

Emergency shutdown systems include scram systems for rapid insertion of control rods during emergencies and backup power supplies to keep critical systems operational during power outages. Security measures include physical security with reinforced structures and barriers to prevent unauthorized access and advanced cybersecurity measures to protect against digital threats.

The modular design of the reactors allows for easy maintenance and replacement of components, while fail-safe mechanisms ensure immediate shutdown and depressurization in the event of system failure. Environmental and operational safety features include low-pressure cooling systems and advanced materials that withstand high temperatures and radiation. Finally, regulatory compliance is maintained through adherence to international and national safety standards and regular audits and inspections.

Q: NANO Nuclear provides a reliable supply of HALEU fuel. Can you discuss the significance of HALEU in your operations and its advantages over other fuel types?

JW: HALEU is crucial for microreactor operations due to its improved performance. The uranium is enriched to between 5% and 20% U-235. It has a higher energy density than conventional low-enriched uranium (LEU) fuel, allowing for more efficient operation and greater energy production from a smaller fuel volume. This results in longer operational cycles and reduced refueling requirements. The compact reactor design enabled by HALEU supports portability and suitability for remote or off-grid locations. It also improves fuel utilisation by enabling higher burnup rates, meaning more fuel is consumed before it is replaced.

Compared to conventional LEU, HALEU offers better efficiency and performance. Compared to natural uranium, HALEU’s higher fissile material concentration eliminates low energy density issues. Compared to MOX (Mixed Oxide Fuel), HALEU’s easier manufacturing and fewer regulatory hurdles make it a more obvious choice. Specific advantages include improved safety and security, reduced refueling frequency, and lower waste generation in microreactor applications. It supports remote area applications and enables integration with renewable energy systems.