A FORCE to be reckoned with: Computer modeling for optimal energy partnerships
Imagine modern computing as the conductor of an orchestra. Just as a conductor brings harmony to a complex musical arrangement, modern computing is crucial to harmonizing the intricate mix of energy producers and users, optimizing the use of precious resources for the greater good. One strategy for establishing that harmony would pair the nuclear energy […]
Watching trends: How INL helps the NRC model risk and reliability
Since the 1990s, Idaho National Laboratory has helped the Nuclear Regulatory Commission understand the safety and reliability of all U.S. nuclear power plants. Supporters of nuclear energy tout the safety and reliability of nuclear power, and data supports their claims. According to detailed studies, nuclear power accounts for 0.03 deaths per terawatt-hour of electricity generated, […]
Hold on! Did you know that microreactors were field deployed over 60 years ago?
Microreactors hold promise for the future of nuclear power, but they are also part of our past. There is a growing interest in alternatives to carbon-based power sources, particularly in remote locations where fuel is expensive, and supplies are difficult to secure throughout the year. An Idaho National Laboratory U.S. Department of Energy Microreactor Program […]
Mobile supercomputer of the future: INL researchers explore connecting data centers to microgrids, microreactors
Roughly 30,000 data centers dot the landscape in the United States and Europe. These computer facilities serve functions as varied as modeling and simulation, cloud-based applications, artificial intelligence and weather forecasting. They are the brains of search engines and social media platforms, and they help engineers design the automobiles and airplanes of the future. In […]
Global learning collaboration: International researchers, visitors connect at INL
Idaho National Laboratory’s International Researcher and Visitor Program drives cross-cultural exchange and promotes collaboration with worldwide scientists and academia inspiring creativity within INL’s scientific community. This program has enabled INL to bring several distinguished researchers and scientists to the lab to participate in vital programs and projects. For several years, Idaho National Laboratory has partnered […]
How molten salt could be the lifeblood of tomorrow’s nuclear energy
Salt isn’t just for popcorn anymore. In fact, molten salt has caught the eye of the nuclear industry as an ideal working fluid for reactor cooling, energy transfer, fueling and fission product absorption. Many of the salts being considered are inexpensive, nontoxic, and easily transportable. In fact, table salt is one of the constituents many […]
National lab helps Wyoming explore nuclear energy frontier
An agreement between Idaho National Laboratory and Wyoming positions the state to continue as a leader in energy production and innovation. The collaboration comes after TerraPower announced plans in 2021 to build its Natrium Power Plant in Kemmerer, Wyoming. Wyoming’s elected officials, educators and business leaders have since reached out to experts at INL for […]
Students worldwide learn to deploy a microreactor at US nuclear energy lab
Students around the world will present their plans on deploying a nuclear microreactor today, the last day of a weeklong internationally organized program held at Idaho National Laboratory May 22-26.
Experimental Breeder Reactor-I opens May 26 for 2023 season
Looking for a fun, free and nerdy day trip? Experimental Breeder Reactor-I, located 50 miles west of Idaho Falls on U.S. 20, will open for the 2023 season starting Friday, May 26, through Labor Day. The museum is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. There is no cost for admission.
Using excess energy to split water could help make hydrogen a key player in the clean energy future
For decades, some energy experts have dreamed of a carbon-free landscape where clean hydrogen is the dominant transportation fuel, energy storage medium and chemical building block. Indeed, hydrogen already plays a big role in the manufacturing processes of many common goods, from metal to fertilizer to food products. Likewise, several recent technologies allow hydrogen to […]
