The San Rafael State Energy Laboratory (USREL), under the direction of the Utah Office of Energy Development (OED), has signed a memorandum of understanding with NuCube Energy to begin installation of a high-temperature nuclear reactor at its Orangeville, Utah site. This advanced nuclear technology from NuCube is designed to generate heat in excess of 1,000 degrees Celsius and promises to directly compete with natural gas in industrial processes.
TRISO technology and heat pipes
The design of the NuCube reactor is based on tristructural-isotropic fuel (TRISO) fuel and a heat pipe system that eliminates the need for moving parts, increasing operational reliability and safety. The reactor is encapsulated in a stainless steel compartment and is positioned as a safe and efficient energy alternative for industries requiring extreme heat.
NuCube’s technology offers flexibility to generate electricity or heat, and can operate off-grid. This makes it a viable solution for rural areas with limited access to energy infrastructure, especially in states with large geographies such as Utah.
Utah, strategic center for nuclear reactor deployment
The agreement comes against a backdrop of growing interest in nuclear energy in the United States. nuclear energy in the United States.. Utah is positioning itself as an emerging benchmark by attracting projects with high technological impact. According to statements by Cristian Rabiti, CEO of NuCube, the collaboration with USREL will make it possible to implement for the first time in the state a nuclear application at such high temperatures for the first time in the state..
The project also includes citizen participation and local cooperation initiatives. For Emy Lesofski, director of OED, the laboratory is ready to host research projects that promote clean, reliable and sustainable energy. The partnership with NuCube reinforces the state’s commitment to a secure and decentralized energy transition.
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Source: NuCube
Photo: Shutterstock
