Brazil’s National Nuclear Energy Commission is developing microreactors to provide energy to small communities and isolated areas, reducing reliance on diesel generators. The project, backed by Finep, involves the Institute of Energy and Nuclear Research studying materials and the Institute of Nuclear Engineering building a subcritical unit. The goal is to create a nationally developed nuclear microreactor solution.
Brazil’s National Nuclear Energy Commission (CNEN) is spearheading initiatives to develop microreactors aimed at decreasing reliance on diesel generators. These microreactors are intended to supply power to smaller urban areas, hospitals, manufacturing facilities, and remote regions. The project involves collaboration between two key technical-scientific units: the Institute of Energy and Nuclear Research (IPEN) in São Paulo and the Institute of Nuclear Engineering (IEN) in Rio de Janeiro.
The project received funding approval from the Financier of Studies & Projects (Finep). IPEN will handle research concerning foundational materials for the microreactor, while IEN will focus on constructing a subcritical unit, a scaled-down model of a nuclear reactor that does not sustain a self-propagating chain reaction. This collaboration exemplifies an innovative step towards national energy solutions.
IPEN’s role includes developing materials for the reactor, such as moderators—beryllium oxide and graphite—and control rods made of boron carbide. The institute plans to facilitate local production of these materials to secure a consistent supply. IPEN may also explore the production of nuclear fuel, particularly larger diameter uranium dioxide (UO2), to further bolster the project’s sustainability.
Researcher Jesualdo Luiz Rossi from IPEN emphasized the historical significance of their work with beryllium oxide, stating, “IPEN’s involvement with beryllium dates back to the 1960s and 1970s… However, this technical knowledge has been lost over time.” This project presents a chance to reclaim that expertise by establishing a new laboratory dedicated to the safe handling and large-scale production of this toxic material.
IEN will continue its work related to a subcritical unit initiated in the 1970s, having revived the project in 2018. Francisco Jose de Oliveira Ferreira, who leads IEN’s Nuclear Engineering Division, noted: “IEN has been working on a subcritical unit project for many years and this was resumed in 2018.” The institute aims to conduct tests on neutron behavior within the reactor and confirm theoretical predictions through experimentation.
The project titled “Development and testing of critical technologies applicable to nuclear microreactors” received financial backing through Finep’s More Innovation program, specifically in the Renewable/Sustainable Energies category. With a total budget of BRL50 million (approximately $8.8 million)—of which BRL30 million is provided by Finep—the initiative is led by Diamante Geração de Energia, INB, and Terminus Pesquisa e Desenvolvimento em Energia.
Numerous scientific and technological institutions will participate in this endeavor, including various federal universities and the National Institute of Telecommunications. The Brazilian Navy’s Nuclear Development Directorate and Blue Amazon Defense Technologies have also pledged their support, enhancing the project’s credibility and collaborative framework.
Over the project’s three-year lifespan, it aims to validate the feasibility of a low-power nuclear microreactor system capable of generating approximately 3 MWe, designed for remote operation and longevity without refuelling. CNEN remarked, “Although there are different projects abroad… there is still no consolidated technology in this area,” implying the uniqueness of Brazil’s approach in developing proprietary national solutions derived from local research.
Professor Joao Moreira, technical coordinator at UFABC, stated: “We are developing something original, based on our technical and industrial competence…” This project also allows IPEN to expand its involvement as new needs emerge, thereby reinforcing its integral role in the nuclear supply chain, according to project coordinator Adolfo Braid.
Essential components for the microreactor will include the core, reflector, control rods, and a passive heat transfer system utilizing innovative heat pipes for thermal stabilization. The institutions engaged in this effort are currently assessing the feasibility of these systems, which are critical for the technology’s reliability.
Presently, the project is progressing at technology readiness level (TRL) 3, which involves mathematical modeling and preliminary studies. The aim is to advance to TRL 6, demonstrating the technology in an operational environment, thus moving closer towards practical implementation. The overall strategy involves developing four Technology Development Units for critical testing as well as a microreactor control and protection system.
Managing the project presents challenges, especially regarding coordination among various universities and research institutes in Brazil. To streamline operations, CNEN will employ management software to monitor progress in real time, ensuring efficient task updates and planning optimization.
The advancement of Brazil’s microreactor project signifies a strategic movement towards sustainable energy solutions, reducing dependence on diesel generators for smaller energy consumers. The collaboration between CNEN, IPEN, and IEN, along with engagement from various universities and institutions, showcases a commitment to establishing a robust national capability in nuclear energy. The project, highlighting both historical expertise and innovation, aims to develop a foundational technology unique to Brazil while preparing for practical application in the field of energy generation.
Original Source: www.neimagazine.com
