Ontario Tech University through the Centre for Small Modular Reactors and the Brilliant Energy Institute will play a key role in ensuring Canada’s future nuclear power generation is safe, reliable and sustainable through its participation in a multi-year research study focused on analyzing fuel used in Small Modular Reactors (SMR).
Natural Resources Canada is providing close to $5 million from its Enabling Small Modular Reactors (SMR) program for the Safety Assessment and Fuel Evaluation of Tri-Structural ISOtropic (TRISO) (SAFE-T) project.
Ontario Tech University is one of the regional partners involved with the SAFE-T project and will work closely with teams at Western University, McMaster University, York University and Canadian Nuclear Laboratories.
Ontario Tech researchers, through the university’s Centre for Small Modular Reactors, will conduct advanced research on the safe storage and evaluation of TRISO fuel, a next-generation nuclear fuel known for its safety, durability, and high-temperature performance. Unlike traditional nuclear fuel designs, TRISO fuel features uranium kernels individually coated with three protective layers, making it far more resistant to failure and radioactive release.
Led by Dr. Kirk Atkinson, Associate Professor and Associate Industrial Research Chair, Department of Energy and Nuclear Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Ontario Tech’s team will investigate the criticality safety of spent TRISO fuel and Mark II used fuel containers using non-destructive imaging and advanced evaluation methods. This work will support the development of 3D activity maps to gather information about irradiated fuel that has been used in a reactor, offering crucial safety insights to spent fuel handlers before long-term storage.
Through its Brilliant Energy Institute (BEI), Ontario Tech will contribute its expertise to the SAFE-T project by facilitating communication and cultural exchange within the project team and with key partners, including Indigenous communities. This will promote transparency, equitable participation, and the incorporation of social considerations in technical research, reinforcing the project’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
About nuclear engineering research at Ontario Tech
Ontario Tech is committed to being a driving force in the clean energy sector, building on its history of excellence in nuclear and energy-related research. As Canada’s only university offering an undergraduate program in nuclear engineering, Ontario Tech’s nuclear program is ranked among the top three in North America for producing new talent for the industry. With a special focus on SMRs, the university is uniquely positioned to contribute to the growth and innovation of the nuclear energy sector.
Quotes
“Ontario Tech University is proud to be at the forefront of this groundbreaking initiative and deeply appreciative of the funding from Natural Resources Canada. Our expertise in nuclear engineering and commitment to sustainable energy solutions are essential in addressing the pressing challenges of nuclear waste management. Through the SAFE-T project, we continue to build the next generation of innovators who will lead Canada toward a low-carbon, sustainable future.”
— Dr. Les Jacobs, Vice-President of Research and Innovation, Ontario Tech University
“The Brilliant Energy Institute is excited to contribute to the SAFE-T project by advancing knowledge management and building strong collaborations among diverse community partners. Our work will ensure that ethical considerations, equity, and transparency are central to the project’s success, ultimately driving positive social outcomes alongside technical advancements.”
— Dr. Rami El-Emam, Director, Brilliant Energy Institute, Ontario Tech University
