Yasir Arafat, CTO at Aalo Atomics, discusses mass-producing safe, scalable, cheap nuclear reactors for clean energy. Podcast explores history of nuclear power, design considerations, sodium thermal reactor concept, challenges of building micro reactors, research reactors at universities, and techno-economics.
Microreactors offer safer, scalable, and cheaper nuclear power production.
Balancing technological innovation with economic viability is crucial for successful adoption of new technologies.
Deep dives
Changing Views on Nuclear Power
In the past, there was significant fear surrounding nuclear power due to incidents like Three Mile Island and Chernobyl. However, as the need for clean energy sources to combat climate change grows, the perspective on nuclear power is shifting. The potential necessity of combining nuclear power with renewables is being considered to address environmental concerns effectively.
Transition to Microreactors
The podcast delves into the concept of microreactors as a new approach to nuclear power generation. Microreactors, smaller and transportable than traditional plants, offer benefits like factory-based construction and safer, scalable, and cheaper production. The focus on inherent safety design and simplified systems aims to revolutionize nuclear energy production.
Challenges of Mass Production
The episode highlights the challenges faced in scaling up microreactors for mass production. Building microreactors in factories aims to reduce capital expenditure and complexity. However, the transition from prototype to large-scale production requires overcoming uncertainties, such as fuel production, infrastructure establishment, and expertise development.
Economic Considerations in Technological Progress
Shifting from a purely technological focus to incorporating economic aspects is crucial for advancing innovation effectively. Understanding the economic viability of engineering solutions, alongside the technical challenges, ensures the relevance and practical implementation of technological advancements. This techno-economic balance is essential for the successful adoption of new technologies in various sectors.
As demand for clean energy grows, engineers around the U.S. are working on a new generation of nuclear reactors. These designs reflect how nuclear energy could fit into the power grid – and our lives – in new ways. Yasir Arafat is the Chief Technology Officer at Aalo Atomics. Yasir’s problem is this: How do you mass produce nuclear reactors that are safe, scalable, and cheap?