AMPERA, an advanced energy technology company, recently produced a full-scale, 3D-printed nuclear reactor module, designed for a subcritical, solid-state, factory-built thorium nuclear reactor. The announcement follows the establishment of an Australian subsidiary to secure thorium supply and support U.S. advanced nuclear fuel production.
This first nuclear module unit includes the core and pressure vessel. Its spherical monolithic gyroid core is 3D printed with silicon carbide and designed for up to 30 years of life without refueling.
“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.”
AMPERA’s advanced nuclear energy systems
AMPERA’s advanced nuclear energy systems are fueled with tri-structural isotropic (TRISO) thorium kernels. They are built with inherent stability by design. Safety is achieved through core design and physics characteristics, reducing reliance on active systems and operator intervention. AMPERA’s nuclear systems are expected to provide up to 30 MWe of power, with larger configurations planned.
Last week, AMPERA 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-fueled power generation. These modular, gas-powered systems leverage AMPERA’s proprietary supercritical carbon dioxide technology and are two-thirds common with the nuclear configuration.
“Our reactors are built for the markets that need power the most: AI data centers, defense, industrial and maritime,” Matthews said. “We expect to be the first company to industrialize factory-built nuclear power with near-term deployment timelines.”
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