A new strategic alliance between Zeno Power and Orano Group has signed an agreement that guarantees the sustained supply of americium-241(Am-241), a long-lived isotope derived from the recycling of used nuclear fuel, key to powering energy systems in space.
Supply of americium-241 for space nuclear batteries
The agreement calls for Orano to supply Am-241 from its nuclear recycling plant nuclear recycling plant located in La Hague, France. This material will be used by Zeno Power to power its radioisotope power systems. radioisotope power systems (RPS), which are(RPS) systems, which are designed to withstand extreme conditions and provide continuous electricity for decades, even in permanently shadowed areas on the Moon.
For decades, the plutonium-238 has been the dominant isotope for space missions. However, its limited availability has led to the search for alternatives. Americium-241 offers significant advantages: Average average lifetime, exceeds 430 years and can be obtained through recycling of radioactive materials.
The new Am-241-powered systems will be part of NASA missions, including lunar rovers, lunar landers and other infrastructure planned for the Artemis program and future missions to Mars. Zeno Power is also working with the Department of Defense to develop strontium-90(Sr-90) based nuclear batteries for maritime environments.
In addition, Zeno will invest millions of dollars to ensure priority access to recycled americium-241. This consolidates a robust, diversified nuclear supply network ready to meet the growing energy needs of advanced exploration missions.
The Am-241 recovery process represents an evolution in the valorization of nuclear waste. Through its industrial experience, Orano establishes itself as a supplier in this chain, bringing technological innovation to an energy solution that will impact both the lunar surface and the far reaches of the solar system.
Nuclear fuel production and recycling. Source: Orano
Source and photo: Zeno Power
