Mini reactor on a container truck with a power output of nearly 20 MW.

Nano Nuclear Energy's prototype of a small modular nuclear reactor can be transported in container trucks to bring clean energy to remote areas.

Nano Nuclear Energy's reactor can fit inside a shipping container. Photo: Nano Nuclear Energy — Nano Nuclear Energy's reactor can fit inside a shipping container. Photo: *Nano Nuclear Energy*

The startup Nano Nuclear Energy aims to design small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs) that could address rising production costs and supply chain constraints in the U.S., Interesting Engineering reported on March 6. Their reactors use low-enriched uranium (Haleu) fuel containing 20% uranium. This higher content than fuel used in conventional reactors allows SMRs to operate efficiently with less fuel, while also increasing the lifespan of the equipment.

Nano Nuclear Energy is currently producing Haleu reactors at its US facility. While the company hasn't disclosed the exact location, the facility has received federal operating permits. They are also developing the reactor design and have introduced a second version called Zeus. Nano Nuclear focuses on operating the reactor with minimal intervention and equipping it with escape routes to ensure smooth and safe operation.

The components of the entire system can fit into standard shipping containers, and the SMR can be easily transported to remote locations where conventional power generation infrastructure is unavailable and large-scale renewable energy projects are difficult to install. In addition to electricity production, the reactor is also designed to harness the heat generated during fission reactions for various direct applications. This excess heat can be converted into electricity to increase output.

Small modular reactors with a capacity of less than 20 megawatts (MW) can provide clean electricity to remote areas. Similar technology is being used on naval vessels. According to Nano Energy, this system could contribute to reducing carbon emissions from various industries such as mining and transportation.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the country needs 200 gigawatts (GW) of nuclear power capacity to achieve its goal of zero emissions by 2050. Current estimates suggest that the existing 95 GW capacity meets 18% of U.S. energy needs, but this comes primarily from a few large nuclear reactors built decades ago. Recently, the U.S. nuclear energy industry has faced numerous project delays and soaring costs.

Typically, nuclear power plants are built on a large scale to reduce energy production costs. However, this also increases costs and installation time before the facility can begin operation. SMRs are smaller versions of fission nuclear reactors. They also help reduce construction costs.

An Khang (According to Interesting Engineering )

Source link