Fusion Reactor

UK Atomic Energy Authority

Introduction

UKAEA’s mission is to lead the commercial development of fusion power and related technology and position the UK as a leader in sustainable nuclear energy. Nuclear fusion, the process that powers the Sun, can play a big part in our carbon-free energy future. UKAEA manages the UK fusion programme at the Culham Centre for Fusion Energy (CCFE), one of the world’s leading fusion research laboratories.

Scientist in Lab
Royce Facilities

Royce Facilities

Core Research Area

Nuclear Materials

Core Research Area

To deliver science and innovation in advanced materials for nuclear applications driving impact and economic benefit for the UK. Nuclear activity can be split into two areas: Nuclear fuels and waste streams in the nuclear fuel cycle; Structural materials for fission and fusion energy. We could see: Fuel production and performance including accident tolerant fuel; Energy & materials co-production; Waste conditioning & disposal; Self-healing coatings; Novel nuclear structural materials; Mechanical properties and irradiation effects in engineered alloys. The Nuclear research area will establish Royce capability for scientists and industry to prepare, test and analyse radioactive materials for fission and fusion applications. It will enable substantial programmes of work on authentic irradiated nuclear materials and support The Industrial Strategy. Our researchers will deliver innovation in materials, materials performance data and understanding to reduce costs and increase productivity in current and future nuclear programmes And we will exploit advanced materials with confidence and the data necessary to underpin safety.

Core Research Area

Nuclear Materials