BREAKING: Scientists at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL) have made a groundbreaking advancement in nuclear energy, successfully producing enriched fuel salt for the world’s first Molten Chloride Reactor Experiment (MCRE). This historic achievement marks the first time in history that chloride-based molten salt fuel has been manufactured for a fast reactor.
The announcement, made earlier today, signals a significant leap forward for American innovation in advanced nuclear technology. Bill Phillips, technical lead for salt synthesis, emphasized the importance of this milestone:
“It’s a major milestone for American innovation and a clear signal of our national commitment to advanced nuclear energy.”
The MCRE project, a collaboration involving the U.S. Department of Energy, Southern Company, TerraPower, and CORE POWER, aims to demonstrate cutting-edge nuclear technologies with potential applications in the maritime market. Operations are slated to begin as soon as 2030.
Unlike conventional reactors that utilize solid fuel rods and water for cooling, molten salt reactors employ liquid fuel—a mixture of salts containing fissile material. This innovative design allows for higher operating temperatures, improved fuel efficiency, and greater safety. The implications are substantial, including the development of compact nuclear systems for ships and remote locations.
Jeff Latkowski, senior vice president of TerraPower, noted the transformative potential of this technology:
“The Molten Chloride Fast Reactor represents a paradigm shift in the nuclear fuel cycle, and MCRE will directly inform the commercialization of that reactor.”
Don Wood, senior technical advisor for MCRE, added:
“Molten salt reactors could provide ships with highly efficient, low-maintenance nuclear power, reducing emissions and enabling long-range, uninterrupted travel.”
The technology could herald a new era in the nuclear sector—one that is mobile, scalable, and globally impactful.
Private sector investments, particularly from the maritime industry, coupled with ongoing financial support from the DOE, have supercharged the MCRE project. Mikal Boe, CEO of CORE POWER, highlighted the urgency of this milestone:
“This milestone accelerates completion of the MCRE, unlocking a new era of nuclear propulsion for a revitalized U.S. merchant shipping fleet that can compete head-on with China.”
The fuel salt production process commenced in 2020 with the objective of converting 90% of uranium metal into uranium chloride, aiming to produce 18 kilograms of fuel salt per batch. Initial efforts fell short, achieving only 80% conversion. However, by September 2024, scientists achieved a remarkable 95% conversion rate, demonstrating their ability to produce a full batch in just one day.
The first batch of fuel salt was delivered at the end of September, with plans to produce four additional batches by March 2026. This work aligns with national objectives to advance nuclear energy, as highlighted in a 2025 executive order by President Donald J. Trump.
Jacob Yingling, a research scientist for fuel salt synthesis, expressed optimism about the future:
“Molten chloride reactors are exciting because they offer the best blend of fuel efficiency, safety and long-term sustainability.”
As the momentum for nuclear power accelerates, governmental policies are evolving to support this innovative frontier. Jess Gehin, INL’s Associate Laboratory Director for Nuclear Science & Technology, noted recent executive orders aimed at revitalizing America’s nuclear energy industrial base, stating:
“These changes have had a significant impact, enabling the acceleration of this technology.”
The impact of MCRE is already resonating within the U.S. nuclear leadership landscape. James King, MCRE project director, summed it up:
“This milestone isn’t just about producing fuel—it’s about proving that the U.S. can lead in next-generation nuclear innovation.”
As developments unfold, the MCRE project promises to lay the foundation for a more secure and sustainable energy future, transforming the landscape of nuclear energy as we know it. Stay tuned for more updates on this pivotal project.