South Korea’s Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) has transferred technology for the Armstrong robot , an innovative two-arm solution designed for complex tasks, to robotics company Big Tex. This agreement marks a significant step in applying advanced robotics to address the challenges of nuclear power plant decommissioning .
What does the Armstrong robot do?
Armstrong is a robot designed to operate in high-risk environments, such as nuclear power plant decommissioning. With the ability to manipulate objects weighing up to 200 kg and unique mobility that allows it to navigate complex terrain, this robot is equipped to perform critical tasks in confined spaces.
Its flexibility allows the installation of specific tools for each operation, offering precise solutions in the handling of radioactive materials .
Armstrong is designed to handle nuclear and radiological emergencies. Source: KAERI Robot lab
About the transfer agreement
The technology transfer agreement includes not only the robot ‘s plans and control systems, but also licenses for five patents that will serve as the basis for the development of new models. Big Tex plans to combine this innovation with its hybrid radioactive waste decontamination technology, creating a robotic platform that can also perform cleaning and transport tasks for hazardous materials.
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), of the 209 nuclear power plants currently in existence, only 21 have been completely decommissioned. However, a total of 588 plants are expected to close down permanently by 2050, creating a global decommissioning market worth more than 400 trillion won. In this context, Armstrong could become a key component in improving the efficiency and safety of these operations.
Strategic alliance
For KAERI, this collaboration is a tangible example of the potential of advanced robotics in sectors beyond nuclear energy .
This technology transfer is an important example of cutting-edge robotic technology being applied to the field of nuclear power plant decommissioning. We will continue to make efforts to spread nuclear robot technology to other industries.
said Joo Han-gyu, the director of the institute.
Meanwhile, Big Tex plans to expand its technology portfolio, using Armstrong as a basis for new developments that can also be applied in other areas, such as industrial waste handling and hazardous materials management in extreme environments.
With this partnership, both KAERI and Big Tex demonstrate how technology transfer can catalyze significant advances in critical sectors, ensuring a safer and more technologically advanced future.
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Source and photos: KAERI
Photo: shutterstock
