The constant search to find an efficient and clean source of energy leads researchers to look for new forms and technologies, or improve existing ones. This is also the case with nuclear energy.
Currently, the nuclear energy is in the midst of a major debate about its suitability as a major player in the global energy mix. But, regardless of the role that he must play in the present and in the future, what is undeniable is that he must evolve to remain an option.
There are several experiments that work with nuclear fusion as a definitive solution to the problem of nuclear energy, but other companies continue to bet on improving the currently widespread process of nuclear fission.
The next step is to build a 1:56 scale prototype that will face a five-year test period.
It is the case of LeadColda Swedish company that investigates how to create nuclear reactors refrigerated with liquid leadsomething until now impossible to achieve.
And it is that this type of reactor, according to the Swedish company, allows to bring together numerous advantages in relation to conventional ones:
- It’s cheaper
- It costs 200 million euros/unit for a useful life of 25 years
- Generates 55 MWe (21 tons of 12% enriched uranium)
- Cooled by liquid lead (and insulated against radiation)
- It is safer (violent reaction against water is avoided)
- Self-contained (fuel without renewal)
- Significant reduction in nuclear waste
- Made with steel and aluminum to prevent corrosion
Good pretty and cheap
The project is in an intermediate phase and, after submitting their reports, LeadCold has managed to get the Swedish Energy Agency inject 9 million euros into the project to build a 1:56 scale prototype that will face a five-year test period, between 2024 and 2029.
The objective is to clearly and unquestionably demonstrate that this type of reactor is possible and, furthermore, that it is beneficial. Liquid lead has several advantages, as it allows cooling of the reactor while insulating the exterior from radiation. And, to avoid corrosion caused by liquid metals, LeadCold uses an alloy of steel and aluminum.
This is the LeadCold liquid lead nuclear reactor.
Not only that, but this design also allows the fuel to last 25 years. no need to be replacedwhich contributes to greater safety, lower cost and a significant reduction in nuclear waste.
According to the Swedish company, its reactor will be capable of generating 55 megawatt electric (MWe) for a total cost, including operational costs and fuel, of 200 million euros per unit.
Sweden, in favor of nuclear energy
Unlike countries like Spain, Sweden is clearly in favor of promoting nuclear power, which is why projects like LeadCold’s have broad government support.
Indeed, Sweden canceled its nuclear shutdown plan in 2009, subsequently initiating a process of six reactors existing in its territory. Currently, these six reactors generate 30% of the electrical energy of the Nordic country.
Sweden also wants to be at the forefront of waste treatment and recently approved the construction of a robotic nuclear graveyard 150 kilometers north of Stockholm.