To support the long-term safety and security of used nuclear fuel management, DOE teamed up with the Electric Power Research Institute to lead a multi-year research project focused on “high burnup” used nuclear fuel. (High burnup fuel remains in reactors longer than lower burnup fuels to maximize energy output.) At the heart of this effort is DOE’s High Burnup Research Cask, a special used nuclear fuel storage container that was loaded with used nuclear fuel generated by the North Anna Power Station in Virginia and placed in dry storage in 2017.
The storage container – called a cask - is unique because it was modified and equipped with instruments to monitor internal temperatures over time at 63 different locations inside the cask. Temperature data plays a crucial role. It provides insights into the condition of the fuel and cladding (hollow metal tubes containing uranium fuel pellets), and what effects transportation might have on the fuel structure.
The data gathered from this project will be shared with the US. Nuclear Regulatory Commission and nuclear plant operators to help inform regulatory decisions about extending dry storage licenses beyond the typical 40-year period.
What’s Next?
DOE is currently developing plans and environmental information to support relocating the cask to Idaho National Laboratory (INL) in fall 2027. The cask will travel by rail aboard DOE’s specially designed Atlas railcar, built to safely and securely transport used nuclear fuel. Once at INL, the cask will be moved inside of a specialized radiological handling facility where it can be opened, and the used nuclear fuel rods can be removed, examined, and tested. This research will be conducted through the newly established Center for Used Fuel Research at INL.
The High Burnup Research Cask (front right), shown as currently stored at the North Anna Power Station. The temperature measuring equipment that distinguishes it from the other casks will be removed prior to shipment to Idaho National Laboratory.
