AMPERA is delivering the world’s first subcritical, solid-state, factory-built thorium nuclear reactor.
The first nuclear module unit, including the core and pressure vessel, was unveiled at AMPERA’s innovation centre.
“This next-generation nuclear core and pressure vessel sets the foundation for factory-built, mass-produced nuclear energy,” said Brian Matthews, Founder and CEO of AMPERA. “The advanced technology and additive manufacturing used demonstrate a clear commercial path for new nuclear technology coming to market in an accelerated manner.”
The 3D printed nuclear module has larger configurations planned
The spherical monolithic gyroid core is 3D printed with silicon carbide and designed for up to 30 years of life without refuelling. The advanced nuclear systems are fuelled with tri-isotopic (TRISO) thorium kernels, instead of the uranium rods most commonly used by commercial reactors.
AMPERA recently announced a partnership with an Australian subsidiary to secure a raw thorium supply, which will be processed internally through a localised supply network.
Manufacturing facilities will convert the raw thorium into TRISO thorium kernels using additive manufacturing and liquid jetting methods.
Meeting high-energy needs
The nuclear modules will be part of a system that will provide a predicted 30 MWe of power, with larger configurations planned. AMPERA is targeting high-consumption industrial sectors seeking immediate localised power infrastructure as consumers for these microreactors.
“Our reactors are built for the markets that need power the most: AI data centers, defense, industrial and maritime,” Brian Matthews said. “We expect to be the first company to industrialize factory-built nuclear power with near-term deployment timelines.”
AMPERA recently announced its “Power Now. Nuclear Next.” strategy, introducing its proprietary Integrated Energy Architecture™, designed to deliver ultra-high-efficiency power generation solutions today through waste heat recovery and conventional-fuelled power generation. These modular, gas-powered systems leverage AMPERA’s proprietary supercritical carbon dioxide technology and are two-thirds common with the nuclear configuration.
