Advanced technology originally designed for future generations on Mars is now revolutionizing nuclear energy on Earth. Nuclear power will become mobile with the advent of lightweight and cost-effective nuclear reactors.
A team of former SpaceX engineers is leading the development of “the world’s first zero-emissions portable power source,” capable of delivering electricity to remote areas and enabling for quick installation in densely populated areas, according to a recent press statement.
The effort gained significant momentum last year when the team secured $1.2 million from angel investors to support their startup, Radiant. Radiant’s mission is to advance the development of mobile nuclear reactors with both commercial and military applications.
While previous discussions have focused on floating nuclear power stations, such as those offered by Danish company Seaborg Technologies, Radiant’s emerging technology with mobile capabilities takes it to the next level. nuclear reactor field.
Radiant’s compact nuclear reactor, still in the prototype stage, is capable of generating more than 1 megawatt, enough to power about 1,000 homes for eight years. Its ability to travel by air, sea and land means delivering cheap energy to communities without easy access to renewables, helping them reduce their dependence on fuel. fossil.
Doug Bernauer, founder and CEO of Radiant, was previously a SpaceX engineer involved in creating power for a community on Mars during his time at the private space corporation. In an interview with Power, Bernauer said: “Many compact nuclear reactors are being developed at fixed sites. There are no commercial systems yet, so there is a race to become be the first.”
Nuclear energy on the way
Over the past year, Radiant has disclosed two provisional patents for its mobile nuclear reactor technology. One of these patents aims to optimize the fueling process, reducing costs and time, while another improves the efficiency of heat transfer from the reactor core.
Radiant’s compact reactor uses advanced nuclear fuel that can withstand higher temperatures than traditional nuclear fuel and has no risk of meltdown. Using helium coolant also minimizes the risk of corrosion and contamination compared to traditional water cooling systems.
Radiant has signed a contract with Battelle Energy Alliance to test mobile nuclear reactor technology at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL).
“In some areas of the world, reliance on diesel fuel cannot continue and solar and wind power are not available or practical,” said Jess Gehin, PhD, Chief Scientist, Department of Science and Technology. Nuclear Science & Technology at INL, shared. “Clean and safe mobile nuclear reactors are emerging as the best option for these environments.”
Radiant’s compact nuclear reactor can be used in remote areas such as arctic villages and isolated military camps that often rely on fossil fuel generators. Not only does this make this mobile reactor environmentally friendly, but it is also more practical because it eliminates the need for frequent transportation of fuel.
The clean fuel used in Radiant’s nuclear reactor can last more than four years.
If everything goes well with Radiant’s testing campaign, nuclear power could soon be widely deployed, powering many remote communities and further contributing to the recovery of nuclear power. in a world increasingly in need of clean energy solutions.