NANO Nuclear and MIT investigate molten salts for advanced nuclear energy solutions

In New York on May 20, 2025, NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. announced a collaborative initiative with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) to explore the thermal and radiolytic properties of nitrate molten salts. This two-year study aims to investigate the applicability of these salts in advanced nuclear energy systems, specifically focusing on their performance under gamma irradiation conditions. The research will utilize MIT's Gammacell 220F Co-60 irradiator to create a safe testing environment while excluding the use of any nuclear materials, thus allowing for precise measurements of the salts' behavior. The collaboration comes at a critical time as the potential of molten salts, typically recognized for their use in solar thermal energy systems, remains underexplored in nuclear environments. This research addresses a significant gap in knowledge surrounding the behavior of these salts under ionizing radiation, and its findings will have implications for the design and safety of next-generation reactors. The study will monitor various performance indicators through advanced diagnostic methods including residual gas analysis, thermal degradation analysis, and post-irradiation spectroscopy. NANO Nuclear positions itself as a leader in advanced nuclear solutions, with its focus on developing cutting-edge technologies including portable microreactors and nuclear applications for space. The project not only aims to characterize molten salts but also intends to enhance engineering processes for microreactors that incorporate these salts for efficient heat transfer and energy storage. The data generated from this research will provide valuable insights that can influence the broader clean energy landscape, such as industrial process heat and off-grid energy storage strategies. The project is set to conclude in 2027, with updates and results being shared quarterly between NANO Nuclear and MIT. The leadership from both institutions expressed enthusiasm regarding the partnership, emphasizing the importance of understanding the performance of these materials in radiation fields and the implications for advancing reactor technology faster and more flexibly. The collaboration signifies a step forward in integrating scientific research with practical applications in nuclear energy, potentially leading to a more sustainable and innovative energy future.