Nuclear revolution: Canada launches a micro-core that works for 15 years without refueling

Revolutionary technology could change the way we think about the production of energy: the Aecl Nuclear Battery Micro-Rigadesigned in Canada, is able to provide electricity and heat for 15 years without the need for refueling. This innovative solid state reactor, developed by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL)it could become an ideal solution to feed remote community and support sustainable industrial processes.

A safe and compact reactor for decentralized and sustainable energy

The Nuclear Battery belongs to the family of reactors Slowpoke (Safe Low-Power Kritical Experiment), a technology developed in Canada and operating successfully for decades also in Jamaica. These are reactors low pressure and cooled by swimming poolknown for theirs intrinsic safety (“Safe by Physics”), which allows simplified operations and Up to 24 hours of operation without direct supervision.

The idea behind this technology is produce energy in a reliable and safe way, without the need for human interventionthus guaranteeing a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, especially for the most difficult areas to reach.

Second Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL)the use of micro-cottors such as the Nuclear Battery It could represent a turning point in the fight against climate change, reducing dependence on fossil fuels and opening new opportunities in sectors such as physics and nuclear medicine.

How the micro-core works and where it could be used

The concept of a nuclear battery It is not new: already between The 80s and 90sScientists explored the idea of ​​a reactor capable of producing energy continuously for over a decade. The current design provides for a reactor capable of generating Up to 600 kWe of electricity and 2400 kWth of heatwith an operating temperature of about 400 ° C.

Thanks to its design, the micro-core can be used in numerous contexts, including:

But true innovation lies in his ability to work without maintenance for yearsguaranteeing reliable energy in places where traditional solutions are impractical.

To transform this technology into a commercial reality, AECL and CNL they are working to involve companies and stakeholders through a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEOI). The goal is to collect feedback on the micro-core potential, evaluate the most promising applications and define strategies to bring the nuclear battery to the market.