tech
Small modular nuclear reactor reaches criticality in first test
The reactor, from a startup called Antares, isn’t ready to generate power yet.
TL;DR
- Antares' test reactor at Idaho National Laboratory has reached criticality.
- This is the first new nuclear reactor design to achieve this milestone.
- The reactor uses a TRISO fuel system with multiple protective layers.
- The design aims to prevent meltdowns by containing the fuel pellets.
- A graphite sheath is used to slow down escaping neutrons.
- The current Mark 0 reactor is for testing and safety data generation, not power generation.
- Full system testing, including power generation, is expected next year.
- The company is collaborating with the Department of Defense's Project Pele and NASA.