US firm to build Gen IV nuclear reactor that uses molten salt as both fuel and coolant
AI Article Summary
Terrestrial Energy, a US-based company, has signed an agreement with the Department of Energy (DOE) under Project TETRA to build a pilot nuclear reactor using molten salt as fuel and coolant. This reactor, part of the Advanced Reactor Pilot Program, aims to demonstrate the capabilities of molten salt reactors for providing electricity and industrial heat. The use of low-enriched uranium fuel enables scalability by utilizing existing US infrastructure and avoiding supply chain challenges. The project is a step towards commercial licensing of advanced nuclear systems.
What This Means for Canadian Contractors
This project shows how innovative nuclear technologies like molten salt reactors can impact the construction of advanced energy facilities. For Canadian builders, this means evaluating new collaborations and supply chain adaptations to anticipate similar technological advancements. The emphasis on scalability and existing infrastructure use could provide valuable insights into reducing supply chain challenges and minimizing operational costs.
