Lightbridge Corporation has obtained a European patent for its design of multi-zone nuclear fuel, manufacturable via 3D printing. The protection covers 39 states, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. The system promises more precise control of neutron flux during the fuel's lifespan.
Three radial zones with variable thickness for neutron control ⚛️
The design features three radial zones of different materials, whose thickness varies axially. This configuration allows adjusting the neutron flux distribution throughout the operating cycle. 3D printing facilitates the manufacturing of complex geometries that would be difficult to achieve with conventional methods. The patent covers key nuclear markets in Europe.
The reactor that prints its own future (and its neighbors applaud) 😄
Now that 3D printing reaches the nuclear industry, we just need someone to design a coffee holder that withstands radiation. Lightbridge assures that its fuel is more efficient. What they don't say is whether it also prints pizzas for the technicians during long shifts. At least, if something goes wrong, the blame will be on the software, not the operator.