Framatome has set a new standard in nuclear fuel innovation with its PROtect Enhanced Accident Tolerant Fuel (E-ATF), becoming the first ATF technology to achieve a burnup rate exceeding 60 gigawatt-days per metric ton of uranium (GWd/tU) in full-length fuel rods. This milestone highlights the transformative potential of advanced fuel designs to enhance safety, reliability, and economic efficiency in nuclear reactor operations.
Revolutionizing Fuel Technology
The PROtect technology features chromium-coated M5Framatome zirconium alloy cladding, which offers exceptional oxidation resistance, improved mechanical integrity at elevated temperatures, and reduced hydrogen generation under extreme conditions. These attributes make it a pivotal advancement in accident-tolerant fuel (ATF) technology, bolstering resilience under severe reactor scenarios while optimizing day-to-day operations.
The enhanced fuel rods, loaded with standard uranium dioxide (UO2) and chromia-doped UO2 pellets, successfully completed four operational cycles at the Gösgen nuclear power plant in Switzerland. Rigorous inspections during the plant’s spring refuelling outage confirmed their exceptional performance, paving the way for their reinsertion into the reactor for a fifth cycle.
“This milestone reflects our dedication to delivering innovative fuel solutions that address both the safety and economic needs of the nuclear industry,” said Lionel Gaiffe, Senior Executive Vice President of Framatome’s Fuel Business Unit. “Our collaboration with operators is key to achieving these advancements and ensuring the future sustainability of nuclear energy.”
Proven Global Performance
Framatome’s PROtect program has demonstrated its capabilities across six reactors worldwide, spanning five reactor types. This robust operational record underscores its versatility and potential to meet the diverse needs of nuclear power utilities.
Accident-tolerant fuels, developed by Framatome, GE Hitachi with GNF, and Westinghouse, are part of the U.S. Department of Energy’s ATF Program, which supports the development of materials and designs to enhance reactor safety under extreme conditions while delivering cost savings for operators.
Strategic Value for Africa
As Africa seeks to expand its nuclear energy portfolio, adopting proven technologies like Framatome’s PROtect ATF can position the continent as a leader in advanced nuclear deployment. Countries such as Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya, which are exploring or expanding nuclear energy projects, stand to benefit from the enhanced safety and efficiency offered by ATF technology.
For Africa’s growing energy needs, accident-tolerant fuels represent a critical innovation, ensuring robust performance while addressing public safety concerns. Technologies like PROtect align with the continent’s ambitions to integrate cleaner, reliable, and more resilient energy sources into its energy mix.
A Pathway to a Sustainable Future
Framatome’s achievement is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in meeting the nuclear industry’s evolving demands. As the world strives for a cleaner energy future, milestones like this affirm the potential of nuclear energy as a sustainable and secure solution.
For Africa, embracing these advancements can not only support its energy goals but also position the continent as a global player in adopting cutting-edge nuclear technologies.
