As per the MoU, the parties will begin discussions for a possible collaboration for the development and commercialization of the advanced beryllium oxide-silicon carbide (BeO-SiC) fuel technology, assessing the advantages of increased cooperation and interaction.
Additionally, they have agreed to seek government or industry partner funding for accident tolerant fuel R&D initiatives.
IBC is the developer of the BeO nuclear fuel technology, while GNF-A is continually advancing fuel technologies and CTP is developing advanced silicon carbide nuclear fuel cladding which will improve both industry economics and safety.
GNF-A COO Chet Akiri said that the company has signed a MoU with IBC and CTP for possible collaboration to provide significant fuel cycle benefits for plant operators.
"The potential benefits of the improved thermal conductivity fuel, combined with CTP’s cladding technology, include lower fuel operating temperatures that deliver the same energy to the reactor system.
"GNF is committed to pursuing new technologies that will improve fuel performance and result in important benefits for our utility customers," added Akiri.
