Argonne, 3 companies teaming up on reactor projects

Argonne National Laboratory will begin working with three of the world's top nuclear service companies on projects that will help advance nuclear reactor design and security.

AREVA Federal Services of Aiken, South Carolina, GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy of Wilmington, North Carolina,  and Westinghouse Electric Co. of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, will be collaborating with Argonne scientists on experimental endeavors involving next generation reactors and expanding the lifespan of existing reactors, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) lab said Jan. 2.

Since 1946, Argonne scientists have conducted groundbreaking research in the field of nuclear energy. The lab is home to the world’s first reactor.

“The fact that Argonne is partnering with private industry on three of the five projects selected for funding by DOE says volumes about the quality of work being performed at the lab,” Argonne Associate Laboratory Director for Energy and Global Security Mark T. Peters said.

The five industry-led projects will receive $13 million in cost-share agreements as part of the Obama administration's all-of-the-above energy approach and Climate Action Plan.

“The challenge of creating the next generation of reactors has energized our staff, and they are doing exciting work of great value to our nation.” Peters said.

Argonne National Laboratory is a multidisciplinary science and engineering research center located at 9700 S. Cass Ave., Lemont, Illinois.