Oklo Inc. the fast fission clean power technology and nuclear fuel recycling company, has completed the first end-to-end demonstration of its advanced fuel recycling process, according to a news release.
The testing was done in collaboration with Argonne National Laboratory and Idaho National Laboratory.
“This achievement marks a significant step forward in Oklo’s efforts to scale up its fuel recycling capabilities and deploy a commercial-scale recycling facility to increase advanced reactor fuel supplies, and enhance fuel cost effectiveness,” the release states.
Supported by a $5m cost-share award from the US Department of Energy, the project aims to facilitate the deployment of a commercial-scale advanced fuel recycling facility.
“We know that recycling is an important path to reduce high-level waste, and advance nuclear energy with safe and sustainable domestic fuel stocks,” said ARPA-E Director Evelyn N. Wang. “This milestone marks an important step forward in the team’s progress as they work towards economically viable nuclear fuel recycling.”
Oklo’s fuel recycling technology is engineered to extract over 90% of the remaining potential energy from used fuel, which is expected to be utilized in Oklo powerhouses to generate clean energy.
It incorporates unique proliferation-resistant features, including maintaining the consolidation of transuranic materials.
The introduction of commercial fuel recycling operations is also expected to save up to 80% on Oklo’s fuel costs, driving long-term value through enhanced fuel efficiency, alternative fuel source creation, and reduction in high-level waste requiring permanent disposal.
“We recognize the inherent opportunity to enhance our mission through fuel recycling, converting used fuel into clean energy,” said Jacob DeWitte, co-founder and CEO of Oklo. “Oklo’s use of fast fission technology positions us well to realize these fuel recycling benefits. The success of this project brings us closer to bringing a commercial-scale domestic fuel recycling facility online, crucial for strengthening our business model and advancing economic viability.”
