According to a new plan announced by the US Department of Energy (DOE), micro-nuclear reactor tests will begin in 2026 at the DOME (Demonstration of Microreactor Experiments) facility at the Idaho National Laboratory. This is the first US test program for microreactor technology - a generation of small, mobile and commercial viable nuclear reactors.
DOME will be the site for field testing of prototype reactors designed to operate independently, operate with passive cooling, and use advanced nuclear fuel. These reactors are compact and can be deployed in remote areas, where environmental conditions are harsh, or where a continuous power supply is needed.
One of the prototypes being tested is a 3 MWt version of the eVinci reactor – designed to produce 5 MW of electricity. It is designed to operate on just two acres, making it small enough to power remote communities, data centers or mining operations. By incorporating heat pipe technology and a completely passive cooling system, the eVinci does not require mechanical pumps, increasing safety and reducing risk.
Also in the first test, a 1.2 MW high-temperature reactor will be put into operation, fully integrated in a standard shipping container. The system, which includes the reactor, cooling equipment, radiation shielding and generator, is designed to replace diesel generators in emergency situations or as a temporary facility.
DOME testing will last up to six months for each reactor. All testing will be self-funded by the developers and will be subject to a multi-phase DOE licensing process that includes design, manufacturing, transportation, and safety assessment requirements. The testing sequence will be determined based on technology readiness, fuel availability, and regulatory approval schedules.
The DOE said both initial test teams are making good progress and will need to complete key technical milestones to maintain access to the DOME test facility. The schedule and quality controls are designed to ensure the test platform is used efficiently and is properly used to develop future commercial microreactors.
According to the DOE, microreactors will play an important role in the expansion of nuclear energy in the United States. They will not only serve civilian needs but also provide reliable energy solutions for military bases and critical infrastructure. With stable operation, low emissions and easy installation, microreactors are expected to become a pillar of the US clean energy system in the coming decade.
The next phase of the DOME demonstration program is scheduled to begin in the summer of 2026, opening the door for new reactor designs to be evaluated and licensed. DOE expects the platform to spur a wave of innovation in small-scale nuclear energy to meet the increasingly diverse and urgent need for electricity.
Source: https://khoahocdoisong.vn/my-thu-nghiem-lo-phan-ung-hat-nhan-sieu-nho-post1552954.html
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