North American military installation will serve as testing ground for advanced, meltdown-resistant small nuclear reaction device technology

The innovative Kronos nuclear microreactor, developed by Nano Nuclear Energy, is set to make a significant impact in the defence sector following a $1.25 million contract awarded by the US Air Force's innovation and venture arm, US AFWERX.

The contract, in collaboration with the 11th Civil Engineering Squadron, aims to explore the feasibility of deploying Nano Nuclear Energy's Kronos micro modular nuclear reactor system at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) in Washington, D.C.

The Kronos nuclear microreactor, a stationary, high-temperature gas-cooled nuclear microreactor, is designed to deliver 15 MW electric (45 MW thermal) of carbon-free power. The system operates at constant power, with the electricity and heat output decided on based on needs.

The 1,018-acre military base located in southwest Washington between the Potomac and Anacostia rivers will benefit from the Kronos microreactor's unique features. The reactor runs using meltdown-resistant TRISO fuel and passive helium cooling, ensuring safety and reliability.

The Kronos nuclear microreactor is equipped with molten salt thermal storage, which stores the heat from the reactor in tanks. This allows for the generation of steam to power an electrical turbine, as needed.

One of the key advantages of the Kronos nuclear microreactor is its longevity. A fuel core in the reactor is rated at 20 years of full power at the lowest power rating. If operation of the nuclear system is desired beyond 20 years, a cartridge replacement can be performed.

The Kronos nuclear microreactor is being designed to withstand cyber and physical threats and enable continuous mission-critical operations. It can stay in operation for multiple decades and be used across multiple industries and environments.

The contract also provides Nano Nuclear Energy with valuable insights about the defense sector needs that can be used in the decades ahead. The US Air Force benefits from the nuclear microreactor program, as it can help meet its energy resilience goals.

This significant win for the Kronos nuclear microreactor program will enable the company to gain an edge in supplying energy to the defense sector, marking a promising step towards a more sustainable and resilient future for military installations.

North American military installation will serve as testing ground for advanced, meltdown-resistant small nuclear reaction device technology