AMPERA Completes World's First Full-Size 3D-Printed Nuclear Reactor Module
Energy technology firm AMPERA has announced the completion of the world's first full-size 3D-printed nuclear reactor module. This manufacturing milestone is a key step in the company's development of a new type of thorium-based nuclear reactor.
Energy technology company AMPERA announced earlier this month the completion of manufacturing the world's first full-size 3D-printed nuclear reactor module. This manufacturing milestone is a crucial step toward the company's goal of developing the world's first subcritical, solid, and factory-prefabricated thorium nuclear reactor.
The module features a spherical, monolithic core based on silicon carbide (SiC) material. It is designed for a 30-year operational lifespan without the need for nuclear fuel replenishment. This design utilizes TRISO (Triple-structured Isotropic) thorium as its nuclear fuel.
Each module is capable of generating 30MW of electrical power. AMPERA's advancement in 3D printing for nuclear applications could offer a new pathway for stable, long-term energy production with reduced fuel handling requirements.