About Us

The Advanced Fuels Campaign (AFC) is a research and development initiative within the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), specifically under the Office of Nuclear Energy (NE).

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, molten salt 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.

three nuclear workers assembling a device

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.
reactor component assembly

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

2001

Gen IV Initiative Established

2002

Begin Advanced Fuels Campaign

2005

Establishment of NGNP Project

2005

Formation of Idaho National Laboratory

2006

GNEP Project

2009

TRISO Fuel Sets Irradiation Record

2011

Fukushima Event

2014

ATF-1 Experiments Begin

2017

TREAT Restart

2018

Halden Shutdown/Develop Recovery Plan

2018

ATF Line Assemblies

2024

Commercial Advanced Nuclear Fuel Arrives in ID

2026

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 and molten salt 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.

Molten salt fuels contain fissile materials such as uranium, thorium or plutonium. These fuels are chemically stably at high temperatures and have a high boiling point. Fuel salts flow and circulate throughout the reactor, enhancing heat transfer and potentially improving reactor efficiency. The radiation performance of the fuel salt is primarily influenced by its chemical stability and off-gassing. Since the fuel is in a liquid state, long-term defect accumulation and structural changes are less of a concern compared to solid fuel types.

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.