On February 14, 2025, the Sustainable Nuclear Energy Technology Platform (SNETP) hosted its second SNETP Project Portfolio webinar, focusing on two pivotal Euratom-funded projects, ENDURANCE and MIMOSA EURATOM, that are laying the foundation for the safe and sustainable development of Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs).
Molten Salt Reactors (MSRs):
MSRs are a promising type of nuclear reactor using molten salt as both fuel and coolant. This innovative design offers significant safety and sustainability advantages, particularly due to the liquid fuel and potential for multi-recycling of nuclear waste.
EU kNowleDge hUb foR enAbling MolteN Salt ReaCtor safety development and dEployment (ENDURANCE Project)
ENDURANCE is designed to support the safe operation and technological development of MSR technology in Europe. With a budget of approximately €4 million and a four-year timeline, the project aims to advance MSR safety and research, bridging the gap between the industry’s needs, regulatory requirements, and research capabilities. It is expected to help bring MSR technology from early research (TRL 1-3) to development (TRL 4-6) and ultimately deployment (TRL 7-9). The project began on October 1, 2024.
MultI-recycling strategies of LWR SNF focusing on MOlten SAlt technology (MIMOSA EURATOM Project)
The MIMOSA project focuses on investigating fast-spectrum MSRs using chloride salts for the multi-recycling of Light Water Reactor (LWR) spent fuels. It aims to prove the technical feasibility and performance of chloride MSRs, optimizing costs and risks while utilizing existing EU infrastructure like the Orano reprocessing plant in La Hague, France. Through simulations and experimental investigations, MIMOSA aims to raise the technology readiness level (TRL) of key MSR materials, processes, and technologies, advancing this critical nuclear energy solution.
Roundtable Discussion & Key Takeaways
A major highlight of the webinar was the insightful presentations from Stefano Lorenzi and Jaén Ocádiz, who provided valuable perspectives on the advancements and challenges in MSR development. The discussions underscored the importance of collaboration between industry, research institutions, and regulators in bringing these innovative technologies to fruition.
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Looking Ahead
We thank SNETP for organizing this excellent opportunity for knowledge exchange, and we look forward to the continued progress of both projects in advancing MSR technology for a sustainable nuclear future.
Join Us for the Next Webinar Mark your calendars for the next SNETP Project Portfolio webinar on March 14, 2025, where we will explore three exciting projects focused on Generation IV reactors:
- LESTO (LEad fast reactor Safety design and TOols), which is a project dedicated to advancing Lead Fast Reactor (LFR) technology, driving its development along the established roadmap while demonstrating its safety, efficiency, and key capabilities in order to support both hydrogen energy production and the future of nuclear power solutions.
- ESFR-SIMPLE (European Sodium Fast Reactor – Safety by Innovative Monitoring, Power Level flexibility and Experimental research), which is a project that aims at challenging the Generation IV ESFR (European Sodium Fast Reactor) designed in the EURATOM ESFR-SMART project, to improve its safety and economics thanks to innovative technologies.
- TREASURE (Towards reliable and safe GFR), which is a project designed to connect European developers of the ALLEGRO Gas-Cooled Fast Reactor (GFR) demonstrator with leading expert organizations specializing in GFR and High-Temperature Reactor (HTR) research. By leveraging their unique expertise and insights, these organizations will contribute innovative ideas and fresh perspectives to advance GFR development.
Register now here to secure your spot!
