What is AFC?
AFC is focused on the design, development, and qualification of advanced nuclear fuels and materials that can significantly improve the performance, safety, and efficiency of current and future nuclear reactors. The campaign’s efforts encompass a variety of advanced nuclear fuel concepts, including Accident Tolerant Fuels (ATF), tri-structural isotropic (TRISO)-coated particle fuels, and metallic fuels.
The work conducted by the AFC is crucial for enhancing the overall safety and robustness of nuclear reactors, particularly in the event of accidents or extreme conditions. Furthermore, these advanced fuels aim to extend the operational life of nuclear fuel, reduce the amount of nuclear waste generated, and support the United States’ strategic energy objectives by fostering innovation in nuclear technology.
Mission
We strive to advance nuclear fuel technologies for enhanced safety, efficiency, and reliability, ensuring cleaner and more dependable energy. Our work supports the national interest by delivering innovations that allow nuclear reactors to operate with fuels that burn longer, hotter, and cleaner, ultimately securing an energy source that is as steadfast as it is enduring.
Vision
We envision a future where cutting-edge nuclear fuels revolutionize energy systems, combining safety with economic and environmental responsibility. Through persistent innovation and exhaustive testing, we strive for a world where nuclear energy operates at peak efficiency and reliability, transcending traditional limitations to power society consistently and cleanly, regardless of external conditions
Values
Safety
We prioritize the utmost safety in all our research and development activities, ensuring that every innovation adheres to the highest safety standards to protect both the industry and the public.
Stewardship
Our work aims to contribute to a responsible energy future by developing nuclear fuels that are secure and economical.
Reliability
We are committed to creating more reliable nuclear fuels that serve the public as a consistent and dependable power source.
Innovation
We are dedicated to continuous innovation, adapting and refining technology to meet and exceed the evolving challenges of nuclear fuel performance.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in research, pushing the boundaries of current knowledge and technology to achieve superior results.
How We Got Here
Begin Advanced Fuels Campaign
Next Generation Fuel Focus
Research and Development Areas
AFC focuses on key research and development topics, such as enhancing Accident Tolerant Fuel (ATF), perfecting tri-structural isotropic (TRISO) coated particle fuel, and furthering the development of metallic fuels. These critical undertakings are fundamental to the AFC’s commitment to improving the safety, operational efficiency, and eco-friendliness of nuclear energy systems.
Accident Tolerant Fuel is designed to enhance the safety of nuclear reactors by maintaining structural integrity and reactor cooling for a longer duration during severe accident conditions. The Advanced Fuels Campaign focuses on the development and deployment of these innovative fuels, aiming to significantly improve the performance and safety of nuclear power systems.
Metallic fuel represents a cutting-edge development in nuclear materials, offering superior heat conductivity and potential for higher burnup compared to traditional oxide fuels. The Advanced Fuels Campaign actively supports the research and advancement of metallic fuel technology to optimize reactor efficiency and safety in the nuclear energy sector.
Coated particle fuel, particularly TRISO fuel, is a robust, high-temperature resistant fuel form that encapsulates uranium particles in multiple protective layers, greatly enhancing their ability to contain fission products. The Advanced Fuels Campaign is invested in the innovation and enhancement of TRISO fuel with the goal of advancing nuclear fuel reliability and safety under severe conditions.
AFC Laboratories
The Advanced Fuels Campaign is a collaborative effort involving teams from Idaho National Laboratory, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, and Brookhaven National Laboratory.
