Titans Of Nuclear | Interviewing World Experts on Nuclear Energy: Recent Episodes
Bret Kugelmass, Energy Impact Center
A podcast featuring interviews with experts throughout the Nuclear Energy field, covering advanced technology, economics, policy, industry, and more.
1) The beginning of Brian’s career and his time in the United States Navy as a diver, as well as what drew him to engineering and nuclear
2) Brian’s initial journey to Oregon State and all of the research projects he’s had a hand in since then
3) Fostering a passion for nuclear in the next generation of nuclear engineers and why the researchers as just as important as the research itself
4) What challenges and successes the nuclear industry will face in the coming years and how to form your individual opinion on nuclear energy
1) Sarah’s journey from ROTC at Kansas State University to the White House to active duty and everything in between
2) A dive into Sarah’s time in graduate school at U.C. Berkeley, meeting her mentors, and how Sarah’s education evolved during her time at Berkeley
3) Sarah’s experience in Washington, D.C. and all the facets of policy and research she was able to contribute to during her time on ‘The Hill’
4) The driving force behind Sarah’s multitude of accomplishments and experiences to date
1) Paul’s decision to complete research on nuclear energy, as well as his journey from graduate school at the University of Wisconsin to Germany and back again
2) The current research Paul is conducting and one of the main tools that has originated from his work, which has to do with nuclear fuel cycle modeling
3) What’s next for Paul’s research, as well as other subjects in the nuclear industry that Paul is keeping an eye on as they evolve
4) How interest in nuclear among young people has developed in recent years and some notable milestones that have contributed to this rise in attention
1) Zach’s journey from the United States Marine Corps to becoming the CEO of Empirix Partners, a strategic sourcing and procurement advisory
2) The growing connections between the data center and nuclear industries
3) Emerging trends and developments in the energy sector that Zach has been keeping an eye on
4) A deep dive into Empirix and what listeners can look forward to in the future
1) Shaheen’s upbringing as a fourth generation farmer, her early interest in physics, and how her career eventually ended up on a path towards nuclear
2) How Shaheen’s early work lead to her current job as an educator in Georgia
3) The ways in which Shaheen stays updated on the latest developments in her field, as well as how they become incorporated into her curriculum
4) How Shaheen promotes diversity and inclusion in nuclear engineering, being a steady resource among uncertainties, and some future-facing thoughts regarding nuclear development
1) Reed’s career journey and his experiences within the legal and government sectors, as well as how he became interested in nuclear energy
2) A bit about the Texas Nuclear Alliance and what the organization has accomplished since its creation in late 2022
3) How efforts that organizations put forth locally or at the state level fit into the federally-driven process of project deployment
4) The current state of nuclear development in Texas and next year’s goals for the Texas Nuclear Alliance
1) Reed’s career journey and his experiences within the legal and government sectors, as well as how he became interested in nuclear energy
2) A bit about the Texas Nuclear Alliance and what the organization has accomplished since its creation in late 2022
3) How efforts that organizations put forth locally or at the state level fit into the federally-driven process of project deployment
4) The current state of nuclear development in Texas and next year’s goals for the Texas Nuclear Alliance
1) How Juliann’s energy career began shortly after graduating from the University of South Florida
2) A deep dive into Women in Nuclear and how the organization has grown since being founded in 1999
3) What Juliann finds particularly interesting about the nuclear industry right now and where she keeps an eye out for regulatory news
4) How women can get involved in Women in Nuclear and how the U.S. subsidiary of WIN interacts with WIN Global
1) A re-introduction to Stefano Buono, the Founder and CEO of newcleo
2) Diving back into newcleo’s technology, the fuel landscape, and fast reactors
3) The intersection of being both pre-revenue and an established, growing company engaging with equipment suppliers
4) Stefano’s entrepreneurial background, the benefits of a higher temperature system using lead, and a brief look toward the future
1) How Bill quite literally followed his dreams and ended up in the nuclear space, as well as the impactful experiences that shaped his education
2) A deep dive into the philosophy behind regulation and how the public typically views radiation (and why)
3) The current state of the nuclear landscape in regards to new builds and current nuclear law
4) What Bill is looking forward to seeing in the nuclear industry's future and what it has to do with advanced and small reactors
1) Ieuan’s background and interests - from music to politics and everything in between
2) The transformation of nuclear energy policy in the United Kingdom over the past five years
3) Ieuan’s campaign to become the next Member of Parliament for Ynys Môn, specifically Ieuan’s motivation to run as well as his platform
4) A take on what the future holds for Ieuan, Anglesey, and more
1) Trey’s early career and his experiences working closely with the healthcare industry
2) The massive growth of AI and how it can affect various industries, such as healthcare and energy, for the better
3) A deep dive into Atomic Canyon, the impetus for starting the company, and what Atomic Canyon is working on right now
4) Trey’s hopes for the future, where to find Atomic Canyon’s latest work, and a message to the nuclear community
1) Rachael, Lead Reporter for Ignition, discusses her background in journalism, focusing on business, science, and technology
2) Ignition, a new digital media outlet covering the nuclear energy sector, particularly advanced reactor startups and policy
3) An exploration between the nature of startups in the nuclear and space industries
4) The importance of nuclear energy in decarbonizing our energy infrastructure and the need for comprehensive coverage in the industry
1) Vince’s journey to nuclear power and how it all started at the Salem and Hope Creek Nuclear Generating Stations
2) Attitudes toward nuclear energy around the world as Vince has experienced them during his career
3) The barriers to a good solution for an inevitable problem
4) The importance of nuclear energy and how it will serve to uplift humanity and increase general prosperity
1) Kyle’s journey into the world of content creation, the details that go into the art, and what interests drive him to keep creating
2) A long-awaited visit to the Dresden Generating Station and Kyle’s other experiences with learning about nuclear energy
3) The public’s common perceptions of nuclear energy content and how to adjust communication based on these reactions
4) How content should evolve over time to maximize understanding and impact
1) Todd’s first encounter with the subject of nuclear energy and how he came to be the President and CEO of the United States Nuclear Industry Council
2) What Todd would say to a policymaker to emphasize the importance of the U.S. nuclear industry and accelerate development
3) The USNIC’s domestic and international reach
4) How the USNIC thinks about financing for advanced reactor projects in the United States, as well as a brief discussion of AI
1) A deep dive into the recent growth of the data center industry and infrastructure
2) Power usage in data centers and the power that different components traditonally use
3) How data centers decide on siting and the relationship between this process and existing power supply
4) An exploration of nuclear data center development and recent conversations, as well as experts, on the topic
1) How the nuclear industry can adapt to the development of the data center industry and energy needs
2) The relationships between generation, transmission, and your end user
3) The ways in which baseload power generation is valuable to data centers and the benefits of co-location
4) Social perceptions of data centers and energy demand, as well as the current state of data centers being built
1) An introduction to the relationship between nuclear energy and data centers
2) The different sizes of nuclear power plants, electricity demand from data centers, and factory manufacturing for nuclear
3) Data center leaders’ growing support for nuclear and the evolution of the procurement process
4) Use cases for nuclear and how nuclear power plants can be integrated into communities, as well as nuclear’s impressive uptime
1) An introduction to Nuclear Nexus, data centers, and what the rest of the series will hold
2) What the experts may discuss as the conversation surrounding data centers continues
3) Where the nuclear industry and data centers converge
4) The topics of energy reliability, power consumption, and data center development
1) Josh’s interesting story of how he first become involved in data center work
2) The start and story of Quantum Loophole
3) The relationship between nuclear energy and data centers
4) How nuclear is able to fill the need for baseload, carbon-free power
1) Bahman’s drive to publish textbooks and how he ended up publishing about 64 works and counting over the course of his career
2) A deep dive into heat pipes and the combined cycle system
3) A discussion of compact heat exchangers
4) Bahman’s new research and some last words of advice regarding innovation and technology
1) Doug’s early interest in nuclear energy, how he ended up in oil and gas, and his eventual return to his passion for nuclear
2) How Doug caught up on the history of nuclear and recent events, as well as his mission to create Oil & Gas Executives for Nuclear
3) How different industries can work together toward the goal of abundant clean energy
4) The future’s energy mix and the development of SMRs
1) How designing a net zero refugee camp led to Richard’s long-time advocacy for energy, sustainability, and, later, nuclear power
2) Richard’s work with the Department of Defense and how he saw the awareness of nuclear energy increase over time
3) The effects of climate change on valuable resources and how the Department of Defense made climate adaptation an effort
4) The use case for modular reactors at operational bases and growing enthusiasm for nuclear energy
1) George’s move from Greece to the United States and how it led him to engineering, becoming a lawyer, and nuclear
2) Why George flew to Japan three weeks after Fukushima and how to communicate with people who aren’t familiar with nuclear
3) The involvement of government in nuclear energy and different ideas on the subject
4) New generations in nuclear and how their mindsets will shift the industry
1) How James got his start in the nuclear industry as a painter and who inspired him to start his career in the first place
2) Explaining nuclear in the 1980’s and how this advocacy has changed over time from generation to generation
3) Day & Zimmermann’s current work and upcoming projects
4) Encouraging people to join the nuclear workforce, advice for those looking to enter the industry, and why nuclear is here to stay
1) How Princess ended up on the path to becoming a Nuclear Communication Specialist
2) The current nuclear development plans for South Africa and what this might look like in the future
3) Desalination, SMRs, and advocating for nuclear across the African continent
4) Princess’ vision for the future of nuclear and the energy mix as a whole
1) How Myrto arrived at energy, specifically nuclear energy, as the root enabler of prosperity
2) Voices of Nuclear, it’s mission and vision, and recent updates
3) A deep dive into the Voices of Nuclear “Energy Transition Scenario” and the relationship between innovation and progress
4) The symbolism and messaging of Voices and what they see for the future of nuclear energy
1) What sparked Grace’s resolve to become a part of the nuclear industry
2) Grace’s recent work as Miss America 2023 and an active nuclear advocate
3) Women in the nuclear industry, young people engaging in nuclear, and committing to changing misconceptions
4) What’s next for Grace and the continuation of her nuclear advocacy work, as well as core design engineering, in her next role
1) The stillness of the French nuclear sector in the 80’s and why Cyrille’s passion for physics led him there
2) The impetus for launching OAKRIDGE SAS and what the company focuses on
3) The countries OAKRIDGE SAS works with, current projects, and an exciting, recent announcement
4) SMRs, COP28, and what the future holds for nuclear energy
1) How interests in math, science, and saving the world lead Claire to nuclear energy
2) Dual Fluid’s technology and what’s behind the company name
3) Critical demonstration experiments and where they might take place
4) What the energy mix will look like in the future and how nuclear fits in to it all
1) Sander’s early career at NRG and nuclear energy in the Netherlands'
2) Thorizon’s Thorium molten salt reactor (MSR) design
3) Recent announcements from Thorizon
4) Where Sander sees nuclear energy in the global energy mix in the future
1) What has changed in the world of nuclear since Andrew last appeared on Titans, as well as some updates on Andrew’s current work and travel
2) How political landscapes and changes can affect the way we build new nuclear
3) The past 5 years of Andrew’s work in the UK - Submarines, research innovation, and reducing time and cost
4) What the future holds for the Nuclear AMRC and what Andrew is most excited to see in the coming years
1) A reintroduction to John Ahlberg, a former Titan from 2020
2) Kärnfull’s target market for deployment and a look into Nordic nuclear
3) District heating in Sweden and the different applications and customers of nuclear energy
4) The pro-nuclear landscape in Sweden and what the landscape looks like in neighboring regions, as well as a quick discussion of COP28
1) Carlo’s educational background and his early start in coal gasification, as well as a desire to travel internationally
2) The biggest lesson Carlo learned from being exposed to a wide variety of energy assets and different modes of operation
3) How the nuclear industry can learn from the best practices of other industries, as well as the different lens Carlo brought to his first experiences in nuclear
4) The nuclear energy landscape in the Netherlands and a deep dive into how its momentum will continue to increase in the coming years
1) Will’s journey learning about nuclear energy in Australia and his founding of Nuclear for Australia
2) A discussion of why Australia should lift the ban on nuclear energy, nuclear submarines, and a letter to the Prime Minister
3) What Will has learned as a 17-year-old founder and his strategies for advocacy and debate
4) Will’s vision for the future of nuclear energy, how to support Nuclear for Australia, and an important message for those interested in nuclear energy
1) Natalie’s last minute switch from film to STEM - How she settled on nuclear engineering
2) An exploration of manufacturing techniques, finding mentors, and invaluable pieces of advice
3) Natalie’s research and a dive into neutron noise, criticality, and robots
4) Celebrating past accomplishments and looking toward what younger generations can help achieve in the future
1) Kaylee’s decision between computer science and nuclear engineering, her current Ph.D. project, and why it’s okay to change your mind
2) How Kaylee became Ms. Nuclear Energy on Tik Tok and what drives her to spread information about nuclear energy
3) How nuclear energy is received on Tik Tok, Kaylee’s audience, and what you might find on Kaylee’s Tik Tok page
4) The advice Kaylee would give to someone entering the nuclear industry and how she would like to see the industry evolve in the near future
1) How Paris got her start in nuclear and began the mission of learning more about energy through research and activism
2) The fight to stop the shutdown of nuclear plants and how this culminated in the effort to save Diablo Canyon
3) How resilience and weekly meetings lead to the government’s reconsideration of Diablo Canyon
4) What Stand Up for Nuclear is currently working on and where Paris sees nuclear going in the future
1) How Charles’ first appearance on Titans of Nuclear opened doors into the world of nuclear energy investment
2) Nuclear energy as a bipartisan issue, as well as when Charles first began to form his own opinions on the subject
3) An impressive exploration of the Oppenheimer Project, a family movie screening of Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, and a visit to the set of the movie
4) A window into what the nuclear industry could look like in the near future
1) Eli’s international upbringing and how it came to influence his interests and career
2) A deep dive into supersonic airplanes, international standards, and startups
3) How The Center for Growth and Opportunity at Utah State University came to be and what the focuses are
4) An exploration of the potential great stagnation, demonstrating leadership through innovation, and influence
1) Juan Pedro’s background and the moving experiences and principles that have propelled him during an impressive career
2) The story behind Pacific Andean Nuclear Power Services, its mission, and where “PAM Power” is going in the future
3) How different countries might collaborate towards a common goal of nuclear development
4) An exploration of what the future of nuclear could look like in South America
- Igor’s background, his proximity to Chernobyl, and how this all shaped his impressive career in nuclear
- An exploration of currently operating reactors
- A deep dive into the world of Supercritical Water Reactors
- Looking toward the reactors of the future
1) Armando’s experience at university, his interest in thermalhydraulics, and how both of these things propelled him into his current position at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories
2) A technical deep dive into some facets of the Supercritical Water Cooled Reactor technology
3) Why the SCWR is being overlooked in the face of numerous other advanced reactor technologies
4) The chemical and mechanical processes of the SCWR and a look inside the world of those who study the technology - What are the popular opinions?
1) Ted’s start in the environmental movement doing grassroots work and how this path eventually lead to the start of The Breakthrough Institute
2) Powerful writing, debates with the environmental movement, and nuclear energy advocacy
3) Ted’s influential pieces on environmentalism and more, as well as the importance of discourse and debate
4) How Ted’s perspective on nuclear energy has changed and evolved throughout his thought leadership - A call to action for Build Nuclear Now
1) Karl’s impressive background in the energy space and his role as an Expert Reviewer for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change Sixth Assessment Report
2) Emissions scenarios, sectoral contributions to net zero, and what happens to the primary energy supply in 1.5/2.0 scenarios
3) Depictions of the energy generation mix in 1.5/2.0 scenarios of the report
4) An exploration of why the Summary for Policymakers only includes “nuclear” twice and what this means for readers, journalists, political decisions, and more
1) Emma’s early love for math and science and how it translated into her career today
2) Emma’s work at the OECD Nuclear Energy Agency, the power of analysis, and what her first six months looked like
3) A deep dive into the SMR Dashboard - The creation and meaning
4) A discussion of supply chain, the Dashboard as a resource for the future, and collaboration in the nuclear energy space
1) Piyush’s upbringing in New Delhi, his background in robotics, and how it all lead him to the nuclear industry
2) Some of the interesting projects of Piyush’s career and his admirable passion for working with and mentoring students
3) Current events in the nuclear industry, some news from Idaho National Laboratory, and a quick dive into energy storage
4) Piyush’s experience of being named Asian American Engineer of the Year for 2022, as well as a few points about nuclear medicine and our nuclear energy future
1) Mike’s journey from starting as a summer intern at Beaver Valley Power Station to becoming President and CEO of Bruce power
2) A deep dive into Canada’s nuclear technology and how partnerships in the industry allow it to excel
3) Canada’s supply chain, baseload energy, and a discussion of Bruce Power’s medical isotopes
4) The climate-change-focused technologies Bruce Power is interested in and what we might see from them next
1) How a trip to Fawley Power Station and having conversations with people in nuclear sparked Nick’s ongoing interest in the nuclear industry and energy
2) Resources for getting to know nuclear energy
3) An exploration of the Gridlocked podcast - How it came to be, some guests, and where the show is headed
4) A dive into communications and how we can best reach people, as well as a couple notes on the current nuclear industry
1) Emma’s background in project management, a desire to bring out the best in people, and the epic similarities between Jurassic World and a fully-scaled nuclear project
2) Diversity and gender representation in the nuclear industry - What has changed in past years and where we can go from here
3) A deep dive into project management, Magnox Ltd, the closeness of the nuclear industry, and more
4) A detailed discussion of decommissioning and what people may not realize about the process
1) Ryan’s studies of political science and renewable engineering, and how he overcame his skepticism of nuclear energy and turned into a nuclear energy advocate
2) How Ryan went from listening to Titans of Nuclear to attending rallies in support of saving nuclear power plants
3) Ryan’s impressive contributions to the nuclear energy movement, building relationships, and a quick dive into some Diablo Canyon history
4) What it’s like to be a nuclear advocate and how to become one, as well as a call to grow and elevate the nuclear movement
1) Nolan’s upbringing in a “small town in Texas,” where he got his Ph.D., and how it led him to several of the passion projects of his career
2) His current work, as well as his recent retirement, and how he may still contribute to the nuclear industry as a Professor Emeritus
3) What Nolan thinks is the most significant discovery in nuclear technology over the course of his career, as well as how it has impacted the industry
4) What advice Nolan would give to someone starting out in the nuclear industry based on his experience and perspective
1) Dan’s journey around the world learning, researching, and eventually teaching
2) The various subjects Dan has taught and a little bit about them, whether it be reactor physics and theory, reactor engineering, or experimental reactor physics
3) How Dan’s background led him to space propulsion systems and a deep dive into his current work in the area
4) How Dan believes the “flying nuclear reactor” that brings students into his lab might come to fruition or develop in the coming years
1) Sharmistha’s moves around the globe, her decision to join a Ph.D. program, and her early work with scintillators
2) The role of radiation monitoring in advanced nuclear technologies
3) Sharmistha’s “dream job” at Georgia Tech and her work with Research & Development
4) A deep dive into the fascinating aspects of neutrons, as well as how Sharmistha’s role marries the sciences and humanities together
1) Five-year-old Anna’s memories of picking up newspaper clippings about Chernobyl and how this translated into a career in nuclear
2) How Anna ended up at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the important work she has conducted there thus far
3) A discussion of the next generation of nuclear engineers
4) Anna paints a picture for the future of nuclear energy and engineering
1) Michl’s upbringing in Austria and the physics course which allowed his interests in science, astronomy, labs, and optics to bloom
2) A quick dive into the origins of fusion - Early labs to the creation of TAE
3) Taking a turn into the technical with a discussion of TAE’s focuses and technology
4) TAE’s current projects and what the regulatory path could look like for fusion in the future
1) Senator Cramer’s background - How he originally sparked his interested in politics and public service
2) North Dakota’s diverse energy mix and how it informs Senator Cramer’s work in the U.S. Senate
3) Senator Cramer’s work in the Environment and Public Works Committee and its oversight of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission
4) How we can improve America's global leadership in nuclear energy, as well as how we could support energy security and geopolitical issues abroad
1) Nils’ incredibly interesting background in nuclear and his journey to becoming a prominent figure in the nuclear space
2) What Nils believes is the best model for nuclear regulation and the characteristics this entails
3) Nils’ time at the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and some of the highlights and challenges of his career
4) The challenges Nils believes we need to overcome in order to have the nuclear energy industry live up to its full potential
Every 100 episodes on Titans of Nuclear, we like to release something extra special. Stay tuned for our exciting release of Episode 400! Thank you for following along on the Titans journey since 2018. Check back here and keep up to date with our social media to see when the special episode has been released.
Twitter | @NuclearTitans
LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/company/nucleartitans/
1) How Bhavya sparked her interests in science and nuclear engineering, as well as traveling around to see power plants in India as a child
2) A deep dive into the types of technologies Bhavya and NASA are using in addition to radioisotope power systems and other power systems
3) The challenges Bhavya foresees having to overcome in terms of relying more on nuclear technology to achieve NASA’s goals in space
4) The regulatory and international cooperation landscapes for nuclear technology in space
1) How Tim came to have a seat on the Georgia Public Service Commission and exactly what the Commission does in Georgia
2) A deep dive into Plant Vogtle, Tim’s experience with nuclear, and how ratepayers and constituents view the nuclear construction process
3) An exploration of Georgia’s unique energy mix
4) Tim’s energy goals for the future, a discussion of his own podcast, and a bit about Tim’s work with EVs
1) Brian’s background as a Mechanical Engineer and his experience being hired in the first group of Shift Technical Advisors at Indian Point 3
2) A day in the life of Indian Nuclear Power Plant back in the mid 1900’s and a discussion of its unique build
3) The mentorship which made Indian Point special and the excitement of outages and refueling
4) Some standout photos from Brian’s book and the family members that worked at Indian Point together
1) We kick off ‘Nuclear Now’ Day with a story of how the film came to be - Listen in for the story behind it all
2) How Oliver Stone and Joshua Goldstein took a deep dive into the nuclear industry in search of the film’s content, as well as what and who viewers might see in ‘Nuclear Now’
3) A discussion of how we’ll get electrons on the grid and some of the most thought-provoking discoveries made in the production of ‘Nuclear Now’
4) A glimpse into what our nuclear future looks like according to Oliver and Joshua
1) A roundtable discussion of Brent and Lex’s backgrounds in science, nuclear, engineering, and more
2) How Brent and Lex came to connect about the ideas behind Solid Atomic, as well as a deep dive into what these ideas could mean for nuclear energy
3) How transmission from 500 feet under the ocean works in the Solid Atomic gameplan
4) A discussion of HALEU fuel and where the Solid Atomic team currently stands in terms of prototyping
1) The choice that lead Roger into his nuclear career and the nuclear submarine it all started on
2) Roger’s work in public speaking and how to get involved in grassroots nuclear organizations or groups
3) A deep dive into Argonne and the multidisciplinary benefits of national labs
4) How projects work at a national lab - Support, funding, management, and more
1) The history of Chalk River and how Canadian Nuclear Laboratories covers the whole spectrum of nuclear projects
2) How Joe’s career path lead him into the broader energy and nuclear spaces - A ‘how to’ on entering the nuclear industry
3) The public perception of nuclear energy and how CNL focuses largely on environmental remediation and cleanup
4) A deep dive into medical isotopes and the Vision 2030 Plan
1) Exploring Julianne’s background and the arguments for and against nuclear she heard back at the start of her career
2) Julianne’s transition from deep technical work into more of a commercial, business development, and strategy space
3) They key pillars of growing a business into a scalable and sustainable entity
4) Julianne’s current role in the consulting space and how nuclear fits in to it all
1) Wayne’s background and a celebration of the one-year anniversary of his current role at General Atomics
2) A detailed explanation of a tokamak device and what it means in the space of fusion power
3) General Atomics’ leadership in the magnetic fusion energy field, as well as their involvement in the recent fusion breakthrough at LLNL
4) Talking points to showcase nuclear energy’s potential to those who aren’t familiar with the technology
1) Yasir’s background, his first internship in the industry, and how Fukushima shaped the start of his nuclear energy career
2) A deep dive into the microreactor work that eventually lead Yasir to Idaho National Laboratory
3) A discussion of the MARVEL project and what it stands for - both the acronym and the mission for the project itself
4) Yasir explores the mindsets of collaboration and competition in the nuclear industry
1) Bret’s educational background and the best piece of advice he would give to someone currently in their undergraduate years
2) A discussion of passive safety and the difference between reactor types
3) A look into the future of where USNC’s microreactors could be deployed
4) For those who missed it, a component of Bret’s speech given at the MIT-CANES Symposium
1) Ken’s impressive career and how he ended up working in the roles of U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. and Arms Control Director
2) A discussion of the world’s nuclear programs
3) A deep dive into the Strategic Defense Initiative
4) Looking back on the history of nuclear, where we've been, and where we’re going
1) Marco’s book, “Why We Need Not Fear Nuclear Energy,” and how he came to write about this particular topic
2) The inspiration for Marco’s book and how he went about researching the multitudes of materials it contains
3) The culture of debate around nuclear energy and how Marco believes we can appeal to those who stand in the middle
4) An exploration of tradition vs. innovation and simplicity vs. complexity when it comes to the nuclear industry
- Stefano’s background and how newcleo came to be
- A deep dive into nuclear technology and newcleo’s ideas
- The regulatory environment in Italy vs. other places around the globe
- A discussion of emerging technology and common debates surrounding the nuclear industry
1) Craig’s start as an entry-level engineer and the path of experience that eventually lead him to EPRI
2) Live from EPRI's annual Nuclear Power Council, Craig discusses advanced reactors, the development of nuclear and EPRI's thought leadership
3) An exploration of how EPRI supports both the existing nuclear fleet, as well as what they like to call the "future fleet"
4) A look at EPRI's recent accomplishments, including their Owner-Operator Requirements Guide and Siting Guide
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John’s history of working with major renewable energy sources and when he began to combat the issue of climate change
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The impressive progression of nuclear projects in Canada and a discussion of where they currently stand
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A deep dive into CANDU reactors and what drove Canada to develop them
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Important messages regarding learning about nuclear, supporting all renewables, and how we can all have a hand in the progression of nuclear energy
1) Boris’ background as a nuclear engineer from Germany and how looking at the energy transition as an opportunity spurred his continuing career in the industry
2) A deep dive into all things Urenco, including its international scope and more
3) Urenco’s growth into the medical isotope space and a discussion of SMRs
4) How hydrogen will play a role in the nuclear energy industry
1) A deep dive into Adam’s background in engineering, nuclear and consulting, and the variety of projects he worked on
2) The Breakthrough Institute’s mission and Adam’s step into the research and policy sectors
3) The history of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission and how it affects policy today
4) An exploration of the NRC’s current ways of operating and how the states may play a role in future policy
1) Rusty’s early curiosity about nuclear energy and how it led to him becoming the Director of NEXT Lab at ACU
2) Rusty’s initial skepticism about molten salt reactors and how it eventually gave way to interest and execution
3) The landmark meeting with the DOE that moved NEXT Lab’s research forward
4) The NRC’s process of reviewing applications, as well as how this process could evolve and change in the future
1) Grace shares her passion for learning, engineering and nuclear energy, as well as nuclear's role in medicine
2) A discussion of the varied and exciting day-to-day life of working in a nuclear power plant
3) Grace’s time as a scholarship competitor, her new role as Miss America 2023 and traveling the world
4) The philosophical importance of communication and spiritual fulfillment in a future career path
1) A lively in-person interview detailing Jim’s background from music to nuclear law
2) The history of the Atomic Energy Commission and Jim’s transition to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission
3) The importance of building relationships, learning the industry, and the role of law in the nuclear landscape
4) Major law-related moments in nuclear to keep an eye on as they develop
1) Tammy’s scientific background and how an LLNL outreach event influenced the career trajectory of her highschool self
2) A deep dive into the National Ignition Facility and some of the momentous experiments Tammy has been a part of
3) An explanation of fusion reactions, lasers, and the various components involved in the recent fusion breakthrough
4) Lawrence Livermore’s mission to create a fusion industry that is equitable, diverse, and just
1) Charles discusses what it was like to grow up with the Oppenheimer legacy and how his Grandfather’s life has been captured and represented in history
2) How the Bhagavad Gita, family life and a trip to Corsica fit into Robert Oppenheimer’s life story
3) The recent restoration of Robert Oppenheimer’s security clearance and how this led to inspiration on Charles’ part
4) Charles’ founding of The Oppenheimer Project, exploring nuclear and making connections in the nuclear space
1) An overview of Bob’s background, his childhood in Brooklyn, and the book which sparked his enduring interest in nuclear
2) Bob’s former negotiations with North Korea and how light water reactors fit into the story
3) A deep dive into the varying forms of plutonium and a debate about the intricacies of engineering
4) Bob’s views on international safety and the accompanying safety of nuclear power
1) Heather’s background in Materials Engineering and her path to nuclear
2) A deep dive into misconceptions about nuclear power plants and how Heather overcame her initial skepticism
3) Heather’s advocacy and the story of Mothers for Nuclear
4) The saving of Diablo Canyon and predictions for what the future could hold
1) How Mikal’s background in shipping led him to the energy industry and the founding of CORE POWER
2) CORE POWER’s role in working alongside TerraPower and Southern Company to develop an MSR
3) The innovative designs of floating nuclear and how they fare on the ocean
4) The benefits and potential challenges of working towards a long-term nuclear energy solution
1) Maria’s upbringing in Ukraine and how her close proximity to Chernobyl inspired a future career
2) How studying the environment led Maria to feeling at home in the nuclear industry
3) The ins and outs of Maria’s role as a Supply Chain Inspection Manager
4) The importance of Nuclear New Build and diversity, equity and inclusion in the nuclear workforce
1) Greg’s interest in space leading him to electrical engineering and data recovery and away from fusion… and then back to fusion again
2) The intricacies of fusion and the public’s view of its potential
3) The process of working with the NRC and receiving approval for safety procedures
4) SHINE Technologies’ ideas, innovation and fusion processes
- Derek's fusion background all the way from middle school to his time at MIT
- How CTFusion differentiates itself from other fusion companies, as well as its various milestones
- The technical setup of spheromak and tokamak reactors in a fusion setting
- The overcoming of mechanical and fusion challenges, as well as insights into the future of fusion
- Chris Keefer and his work with Canadians for Nuclear Energy
- The saving of the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station and its CANDU Reactors
- How the refurbishment of CANDU Nuclear Reactors and their lifetime shakes out in the political space
- Chris’s nuclear worldview and his very own “Decouple” podcast
1) Kate Fowler’s background and early career experience working in nuclear fire protection and safety
2) Kate’s expertise in nuclear insurance and how insurance is handled in the nuclear industry
3) How the nuclear insurance industry is preparing for the development of SMRs and AMRs
4) Kate’s vision for the future of nuclear energy and the role insurers will play
1) Maria Korsnick’s background working as Chief Nuclear Engineer for Constellation
2) A deep dive into NEI’s work and Maria’s role there
3) A look at the challenges current operators and new nuclear developers are facing in the United States
4) Maria’s vision for the future of nuclear energy in the US and globally
1) Alex Kaufman’s background growing up in New York and becoming a writer
2) How Alex approaches writing about scientific topics and communicating complicated technical concepts to an audience
3) Alex’s recent articles about nuclear energy and his journey learning and writing about nuclear
4) Alex’s vision for the future of clean energy and the role nuclear can play
1) Edgardo’s background growing up in Chile and Canada
2) Edgardo’s work in telecommunications consulting and energy economics
3) A deep dive into the economics of nuclear energy and where Edgardo has seen challenges
4) Edgardo’s vision for the future of the clean energy transition
1) David Stearns’ early career at the intersection between finance and policy and how that led him to nuclear
2) David’s experience working on nuclear projects in the 1990s
3) A deep dive into nuclear financing models and the pros and cons of various routes
4) David’s vision for the future of nuclear energy
1) Rep. Donald’s background working in finance and his inspiration to join the House of Representatives
2) A deep dive into the role clean, baseload power plays in enabling innovation
3) A look at the roadblocks in current domestic nuclear development and how to overcome those roadblocks
4) Rep. Donald’s vision for the future he hopes to help enable
1) Phillip Johnson’s career working at UxC starting as an analyst and working up to VP of Fuel Cycle
2) A deep dive into uranium markets and UxC’s role as a leading data source
3) The impact of geopolitical issues on uranium markets
4) A look at new nuclear development projects and opportunities for SMRs around the world
1) Dominique Minière's long career with EDF and his transition to Ontario Power Generation
2) The relationship between OPG and Global First Power and the work they are doing with USNC
3) An update on OPG’s SMR project with GE Hitachi at the Darlington site
4) Dominique’s vision for the future of nuclear energy in Canada
1) Ian Grant’s early career working for Babcock and Wilcox in the United Kingdom
2) Ian’s move to Canada working with Atomic Energy of Canada Limited
3) CANDU reactor's unique design and the technological advantages they offer
4) Ian’s vision for the future of SMRs and nuclear energy development
1) Jim Howe’s career path from the Coast Guard to nuclear fuel enrichment
2) A deep dive into the history of Centrus Energy and their unique role in the nuclear fuel cycle
3) How Jim’s role in government relations contributes to Centrus’ overall mission
4) Jim’s vision for the future of nuclear energy and nuclear fuel
1) Brett Plummer walks us through his career evolution starting in the naval nuclear program
2) Brett’s role at NB Power and the steps he’s taken to help them drive towards excellence
3) SMR development in New Brunswick and NB Power’s work with Moltex and ARC Canada
4) Brett’s vision for the future of nuclear power in Canada and around the world
1) Chris' journey to nuclear advocacy and the changes he's seen in overall attitudes towards nuclear
2) A deep dive into green bonds and nuclear's role in green financing frameworks
3) Nuclear power in Canada and the important role it plays in the country's clean energy generation
4) Nuclear messaging and ways the nuclear industry can improve their communications strategies
1) Craig’s background working in multiple areas of government
2) Craig’s previous role as Deputy Director of Advanced Nuclear Innovation for BEIS
3) How the SMR landscape in the UK has changed over the years
4) Craig’s vision for the future of nuclear in the UK and around the world
1) His Excellency’s background growing up in Abu Dhabi and his early interest in engineering
2) A deep dive into the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation and the success of the Barakah Project
3) The UAE’s role in nuclear power development and opportunities for further growth
4) His Excellency’s vision for the future of nuclear energy in the UAE and around the world
1) Jake’s background growing up in New Mexico and being around nuclear energy from a young age
2) A deep dive into the founding of Oklo and what makes their technology unique
3) How Oklo is navigating challenges associated with licensing in the United States
4) Jake’s vision for Oklo’s future and how they are continuing to push forward
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Katie Silver recaps her career and explains how she became the lead on the Reuters SMR and Advanced Reactor conference
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A look into this year's conference and some of the upcoming speakers.
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Katie's vision for the future of nuclear energy
To learn more about this year's conference visit Reuters Events.
1) Ed's early introduction to the nuclear industry through dose and risk assessment studies
2) The history of the linear no-threshold model
3) Challenges and criticisms of the linear no-threshold model
4) Ed's vision for the future of radiation studies
1) David Frum on how early experiences informed his view on the emerging carbon issues
2) The context of Germany’s recent anti-nuclear decisions and other critical pivot points for the nation
3) A deep dive into the scale of the current carbon issue and how it could change globally
4) Why global wealth & prosperity is the key to cleaner energy and air
1) Jonathan Hackett's background studying physics and how he translated that into a career in finance
2) Background on green bonds and BMO's role in the issuance of the first nuclear green bond
3) What the issuance of a nuclear green bond indicates about nuclear's role in green financing frameworks going forward
4) The rapid growth of sustainable finance over the past few years and the challenges/opportunities if presents for nuclear
1) Scott Bailey shares how his journey through merchant marines and traditional nuclear brought him to small modular reactors 2) Why simplicity in design and supply chain are some of NuScale’s greatest assets
3) A deep dive on NuScale’s manufacturing, assembly, and deployment strategies
4) Two key deliverables to get from vendors to mitigate risk in the design for the manufacturing stage
1) How Thomas Jam Pederson made the jump from the IT industry to molten salt reactors
2) How Copenhagen Atomics is bringing new nuclear technology paired with a new industry business model
3) Challenges of operating a nuclear-based business in a country that has outlawed civil nuclear
4) Why both open source and patented designs are beneficial to the nuclear startup community
1) Jeff Chamberlain reflects on the early initiatives to secure vulnerable nuclear materials post-9/11
2) Role of the US National Nuclear Security Administration in nonproliferation and export control
3) Strategies for converting highly enriched uranium nuclear reactors to use LEU fuels
4) Exploring the latest NNSA resource for industry and academia: US Nuclear Nexus
1) Jean-Michel Hoorelbeke’s path to a nuclear energy career through his mining engineering education
2) How France’s Underground Research Laboratory verified the feasibility of the nuclear waste geological repository
3) The progression of Cigéo from the research phase to the industrial phase
4) Remaining research for France’s nuclear waste storage & disposal plans
1) Thomas' career trajectory from public service to private industry
2) The many roles Thomas has played at Assystem across many different geographies
3) Private industry's role in accelerating the clean energy transition throughout Europe
4) Thomas' vision for the future of nuclear energy around the world
1) Kamen Kraev's path to journalism and how he ended up writing about nuclear energy
2) The history of NucNet, one of the world's leading nuclear publications
3) Communications challenges within nuclear energy and what communications professionals can do to help
4) Kamen's hopes for the future of nuclear as an energy source
1) Madeleine's path to nuclear, starting with her industrial placement year at Sellafield
2) Madeleine's previous roles managing operations at Sellafield's sludge packaging facility and fleet maintenance facilities
3) How Sellafield uses flasks to transport nuclear waste inside and outside of the site
4) Madeleine's role managing Sellafield's COVID-19 response and maintaining operations throughout the pandemic
1) Rory O'Sullivan's early career working in construction and on a wind farm
2) Rory's introduction to molten salt reactors and his early work researching this technology
3) A look at Moltex's technology including WATSS which provides the ability to recycle nuclear waste
4) Rory's vision for future deployment of Moltex reactors in Canada
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Sylvie Bermann's background as the French Ambassador to the United Kingdom, France, and Russia.
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A deep dive into the 2021 World Nuclear Exhibition and GIFEN's role in hosting the event.
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A look at the WNE Awards Ceremony, including the first-ever WNE Fellow Award
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Sylvie Bermann's vision for the future of nuclear energy in France and around the world
Titans of Nuclear host Jadwiga Najder and producer Olivia Columbus provide an in-depth look at the 2021 World Nuclear Exhibition.
1) Emmet Penney’s philosophical journey to nuclear energy & what changed his mind along the way
2) A comparison of strategies for nuclear power plant build-out in the US
3) How to replace coal power with nuclear and why deregulation is the key first step
4) Challenges in culture & communication in the nuclear space
1) Andy Prendergast introduces the GMB general union and its role in UK’s nuclear industry
2) Strategies for closing and maintaining the skills gap needed to build new nuclear
3) UK’s projected job growth related to nuclear technology export
4) How the GMB is advocating for nuclear’s long term impacts on skilled careers, the UK economy, and global climate change
1) Robin Manley explains how OPG has shifted its small modular reactor (SMR) deployment strategy
2) The final three contenders for Canada’s first SMR build
3) How the CNSC is integrated into preliminary design analysis & operating plant monitoring
4) Looking at future advanced reactor & microreactor possibilities in Ontario
1) Cesare Frepoli reflects on how & why he continued to pursue a nuclear engineering career in the aftermath of Chernobyl
2) The role of integrated test facilities in new nuclear plant safety analyses
3) How the licensing and certification process is evolving and adapting to another dimension of nuclear power
4) Keys to building a company and a team focused on complex, technically challenging projects
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Matt’s early career working in blogging and launching Vox
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Matt’s newest project, Slow Boring, and his recent piece on nuclear power
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Differences in regulatory structures between nuclear energy and other heavily regulated sectors
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Opportunities for new nuclear development around the world
1) Ian Hore-Lacy remembers how his book “Nuclear Electricity” came about 40 years ago
2) The current state of Australia’s energy infrastructure & its stance on nuclear power
3) Comparing 1960s nuclear power plant construction & ways small modular reactors can improve production cost
4) The future of nuclear in Australia
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Lonnie's career as an electrical worker and early involvement in the IBEW
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The IBEW's role representing workers both at the local and federal level
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Lonnie's recent op-ed on the importance of nuclear energy
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Lonnie's role as an advisor to the presidential transition team
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Robert’s early introduction to nuclear energy and thorium reactors
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Robert’s recent Wall Street Journal op-ed and the linear no-threshold hypothesis
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A look at Thorcon’s concept of building a small modular reactor (SMR) using shipbuilding techniques
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Thorcon’s plans to deploy an SMR in Indonesia
1) Adrian Bull’s journey through the nuclear industry, from modeling and research to communications
2) How Adrian worked with Japanese leadership to rethink communication strategies – direct & indirect - after Fukushima
3) The process of building & maintaining a nuclear cultural heritage in the UK’s communities
4) Ways to maximize the supply chain in the UK to support the rollout of new nuclear
1) Laura Leay breaks down how inactive versions of high-level nuclear waste are used to study & improve processes
2) Ways that knowledge exchange programs can be used to build up a facility’s resume to support long-term projects
3) Technological, generational, and behavioral changes inside the nuclear industry
4) How familiarity impacts perception and how to bring familiarity to nuclear energy
1) Mark Nelson looks at the breakdowns in the nuclear industry today & how attracting top talent can change the course
2) The danger and potential consequences of over-optimization in nuclear power plant design
3) Mark shares how he made his viral graph comparing CO2 emissions of France and Germany
4) Why fully operational, paid-for, carbon-free nuclear plants are getting shut down around the world & how to make an impact
1) Austin Lo walks through the process of thermionic energy conversion and why General Motors got involved in nuclear reactor research in the 1960s
2) Benefits & challenges of thermionics for space nuclear power applications
3) A comparison of how nuclear R&D has evolved over time and alongside regulatory changes
4) Expanding nuclear innovation to cultural growth, discovery, and new inventions
1) How the UK nuclear market has shifted from decommissioning to new builds and the current state of the industry
2) Why fully-functioning nuclear reactors require design changes when crossing international borders into new regulatory requirements
3) Allan Carson’s path to the World Nuclear Association to pursue international cooperation in reactor design
4) Plans for a future with regulatory collaboration and the direct impacts to clean energy & climate change
1) Jay Wileman explains how the GE and Hitachi partnership started and how it’s evolved over the years
2) A breakdown of the five different value streams GE Hitachi Nuclear Energy brings to its customers
3) Advantages of the up-and-coming BWRX-300 reactor in the global nuclear space
4) Why keeping and maintaining existing nuclear plants is key to achieving climate goals
1) Why bringing manufacturing back to the UK is critical for controlling emissions
2) Paul Nevitt walks through how his early chemistry linked to nuclear through UK’s defense sector study of actinides
3) Role of the National Nuclear Laboratory in driving collaboration towards achieving climate goals
4) A spotlight on some feature projects at the Nuclear Innovation Research Office
1) The story of how Jeremy Gordon stumbled into editing Nuclear Engineering International Magazine with zero background in nuclear
2) Jeremy’s transition to the World Nuclear Association and how he built World Nuclear News
3) Fukushima as a case study for how to communicate about a developing emergency situation at a nuclear power plant
4) Why creating alliances and collaboration with outside sectors is key to salvaging the nuclear industry’s social license
1) How Callum Thomas identified the human resources need in the nuclear industry, leading to the startup of his organization, Thomas Thor
2) Challenges and opportunities in finding and recruiting skilled personnel into the global nuclear workforce
3) Ways Thomas Thor is advocating for the nuclear industry and encouraging people to do independent research and come to their own conclusions about the technology
4) Why diversity and inclusion is key to successful collaboration and execution of nuclear projects and, on a bigger scale, achieving net-zero
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How Fiona Reilly’s nuclear career started as a commercial lawyer visiting a nuclear power plant during a refueling outage
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The key to building future nuclear projects through a combination of risk sharing and profit sharing
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How technology parks, medical isotopes, and fusion can play an important role in UK’s leveling up economic agenda
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Considerations for financing energy projects and a breakdown of early project development costs
1) What led Jason Crawford to make the jump from Silicon Valley to a focus on the history of technology and philosophy of progress
2) How Jason got into writing and connected with some of his favorite economic historians through a viral post on the invention of the bicycle
3) The critical events that strangled nuclear energy progress in its early years and a look at the bottlenecks it faces today
4) A sneak peek of Jason’s book, Roots of Progress, and a call to action to pay it forward to future generations through technological advancement
1) Lindsay Morton reflects on how she discovered the field of epidemiology and how it satisfied her love for math, biology, and research
2) How the National Cancer Institute contributes to global cancer research and a look at the projects they pursue internally
3) Why studying the impacts of radiation on the human body is so complex and some of the testing methodologies and biometrics used
4) A review of past and ongoing cancer studies related to the Chernobyl incident and how it informs data in new incidents, like at Fukushima
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Dr. Chanock's early career in medicine, dedicating his work to cancer research
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The National Cancer Institute's role within the National Institute of Health and why they decided to pursue studies on Chernobyl
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A deep dive into the NCI's two most recent studies on Chernobyl, the largest of their kind
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A look at the results of those studies and their larger applications for public health
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Andrzej's early career leading the startup of Poland's Maria research reactor
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His work at the IAEA and experiences traveling to plants around the world
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Lessons learned about the safety of nuclear power plants from the Fukushima accident
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Andrzej's belief's around changing the approach to the effects of small doses of radiation
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Michel's early work as an economist with the CEA
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Michel's shift into the policy space at the OECD-NEA
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The economics of nuclear energy and how it differs from other energy sectors
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Learning from past experiences in the development of new nuclear projects
1) Ben Levitt reflects on the path that led him through the world of physics into fusion technology development at Zap Energy
2) How observations from the 18th century contributed to the understanding of the Z-pinch concept
3) The process of achieving scientific and commercial break-even in deuterium-tritium fusion
4) Why fusion is key to the success and sustainability of humanity now and in the future
1) Arun Khuttan gives a brief history of COP and how the nuclear community has been involved in the past
2) Neil Calder introduces how the Net Zero Needs Nuclear campaign is asking international leaders to reassess their energy policies
3) Sophie Zienkiewicz explains the outreach strategy, both within and outside the nuclear sector, for starting more conversations around nuclear
4) Why the younger generation of nuclear professionals is so passionate about fighting climate change with this technology
1) George Verberg’s early exposure to energy working in the Government of the Netherlands
2) His work in natural gas at Gasunie and as President of the International Gas Union
3) George’s work as a nuclear advocate in the Netherlands
4) Future opportunities for nuclear development in the Netherlands
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Richard Meserve's accidental introduction to nuclear working in the White House Science Advisor's office during Three Mile Island
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Richard's appointment to the NRC and his role as Chairman
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Takeaways from the Fukushima accident its impact on perceptions of nuclear
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Opportunities for the development of advanced reactors and their role in tackling climate change
1) Esam Hussein’s journey from Egypt to Canada in the pursuit of a career in nuclear engineering
2) An in-depth look at the intricacies of the CANDU reactors and how they’ve evolved
3) A comparative analysis of different SMR designs in terms of technology and modularity
4) How to optimize capital cost and operating cost in nuclear power plants
1) Isabelle Boemeke’s journey through her modeling career, leading her to entrepreneurship and eventually, environmentalism
2) How Isodope, Isabelle’s social media character, is making nuclear energy relatable and relevant for the masses
3)Strategies for educating and engaging the public in climate change conversation
4) A look at the electricity & emissions impacts California will see if Diablo Canyon shuts down for good
1) How Chris Gadomski’s childhood memories of the 1970s oil embargo shaped his view on energy forever
2) The links between oil, renewables, and nuclear through the STEEP plus W analysis
3) A comparison of the nuclear industries in China, Russia, and the United States through the decades
4) Why operating nuclear reactors are getting shut down in the US and the impact on net-zero goals if the trend continues
1) How the global fashion industry led Rickey Ruff to go door-to-door to factories in Hong Kong
2) The role of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals in Rickey’s journey to pursue clean energy
3) Why the international fashion supply chain is the perfect industry for microreactor deployment
4) This year’s newest feature at the New York Fashion Week: nuclear energy
1) Anicet Touré gives a brief history of Belgium’s nuclear industry and the role of Tractebel
2) The opposing influences of Germany and France on Europe’s stance on nuclear
3) Four questions to ask when determining the business case of small modular reactors in your country
4) How SMRs can open new market opportunities for multiple industries, including the steel and petrochemical sectors
1) A look at Steven Arndt’s early studies in nuclear instrumentation & controls and probabilistic risk assessments
2) How the Nuclear Regulatory Commission has adapted to a changing industry over the years
3) What the regulation change or exemption process looks like for new reactor licensees
4) How the American Nuclear Society is working to get nuclear on a level playing field in the energy industry
1) Sama’s introduction to the energy industry and how she got hooked on nuclear
2) The study of heat transfer correlation between corium and concrete in a core meltdown
3) How to address the system cost of energy technologies and factor in decarbonization
4) Why it’s important to get nuclear energy included in Europe’s sustainable financing taxonomy
1) What led Zion Lights to change her mind and dedicate her life to sharing nuclear with others
2) Why traditional conversations surrounding nuclear limit our ability to stop climate change
3) A sneak peek into Zion’s new grassroots movement, Emergency Reactor
4) How to take action against climate change and participate during a pandemic
1) How Dr. Bismark Tyobeka’s early interest in physics led him into the study of radiation and nuclear reactors
2) A brief history of nuclear technology development in South Africa
3) The importance of collaboration in Dr. Tyobeka’s professional development
4) What the future of nuclear looks like in South Africa, and some global insights
1) What led Mary Lou to shift from teaching high school students to a joint appointment at Idaho National Labs and Idaho State University
2) Her work in South Africa at the Pebble Bed Modular Reactor
3) Mary Lou's involvement in the American Nuclear Society from member to president
4) The many applications of nuclear and opportunities it offers for the future
1) Why Lars Roobol’s early interest in radiation was triggered by the incident at Chernobyl
2) How the material test reactor in the Netherlands contributes to nuclear medicine
3) A comparison of risk communication and public perception of nuclear and other industries
4) Lars discusses some market incentives to encourage clean energy across sectors
1) Dan’s early work in various uranium enrichment methods and technologies
2) The origin of the TVA and its unique model within the U.S. government
3) The TVA’s work on the Clinch River Nuclear Technology Park
4) Innovative approaches to site permitting, advanced construction methods, and supporting new nuclear
1) Brett’s first introduction to nuclear as a University of Florida undergraduate
2) Brett’s career transition from nuclear engineer to nuclear policy expert
3) The Clean Air Task Force’s role in supporting nuclear energy as a tool to decarbonize the energy grid
4) The future of nuclear energy and projects that Brett is excited to see become a reality
1) Michelle's career spanning from engineering to public policy
2) The Energy Impact Center's (EIC) work and partnering with the University of Michigan for the Nuclear Grand Prize Challenge
3) An update on the Nuclear Grand Prize Challenge and other EIC projects
4) Michelle's work on Open100 and her goals for the future of the project
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Björn's career as an energy financier
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Björn's introduction to nuclear energy, shifting from a critic to advocate
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The German Energiewende policy and its impact on the country's energy makeup
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Challenges nuclear energy faces in Germany and efforts to expand nuclear around the world
1) Rolls Royce’s broad scope of work in aircrafts, defense, and power
2) Alan’s role in helping to develop Rolls Royce’s nuclear program
3) Rolls Royce’s plan to develop an SMR by 2029
4) The nuances and challenges of financing new nuclear projects
We are excited to announce that we've launched a new podcast, the Energy Impact Podcast. For more information please visit energyimpactcenter.org/podcast and be sure to listen, subscribe, and leave a review.
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Chris’ background growing up in Canada and becoming an activist
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Chris’ career as a doctor and the prevalence of nuclear medicine
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The linear-no-threshold hypothesis and commonly held misconceptions about nuclear
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Chris’ role as a nuclear advocate in Canada and his hopes for the future of the pro-nuclear movement
- Director-General Grossi’s career as a diplomat and early introduction to nuclear
- The IAEA’s work covering all facets of atomic energy
- Global perceptions of nuclear energy and the IAEA’s role in shepherding newcomer countries through the process of acquiring nuclear energy
- Director-General Grossi’s vision for the future of nuclear and the role it will play in the clean energy transition
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Dr. Ameri’s background as a radiation oncologist
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Dr. Ameri’s initial introduction to low-dose radiation as a COVID-19 pneumonia treatment
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The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic in Iran
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Dr. Ameri’s goals to expand this treatment and push forward further trials
1) The impact of Fukushima on Victor Nian’s career path in the nuclear industry
2) A regional look at the risks and benefits of expanding nuclear energy in Southeast Asia
3) Singapore’s focus on energy efficiency as an urban island state
4) How small modular reactors could change Singapore’s nuclear power development
1) Early uses of radiation in medicine
2) The use of low-dose radiation to treat cancer
3) Dr. Khan’s work treating COVID-19 related pneumonia with low-dose radiation
4) Global efforts to begin clinical trials treating COVID-19 related pneumonia with low-dose radiation and the challenges of using this treatment off protocol
1) The use of radiation as a treatment for cancer and various benign diseases.
2) Cytokine release syndrome, the cytokine storm, and the body’s inflammatory response to COVID-19.
3) The use of low-dose radiation to treat COVID-19 related pneumonia and historical uses of radiation to treat pneumonia.
4) Current challenges to using low-dose radiation to treat COVID-19 related pneumonia.
1) The impacts of COVID-19 on the immune system
2) The use of low dose radiation (LDR) to treat COVID-19 related pneumonia and the historical precedence for this treatment
3) The importance of accurately weighing risk versus benefits when evaluating the use of radiation in medical procedures
4) Misconceptions about radiation and the important role it plays in medicine
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Facundo Deluchi introduces Argentina’s nuclear program and its impact worldwide through technology export
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The role of INVAP in Argentina’s nuclear program and throughout the international market
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Why the specific needs of developing countries must be considered in energy infrastructure development
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How the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation brings different nuclear stakeholders together to strengthen the worldwide industry
Nick Smith joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear to discuss:
1) How Nick Smith’s early professional career on the football field led him to the energy industry in an unconventional way
2) Nick reflects on his personal discovery of nuclear power and how it led to a major career shift to advanced nuclear R&D
3) An overview of the current projects underway at the National Reactor Innovation Center (NRIC) to enable advanced reactor demonstrations
4) The role of the Zero Power Physics Reactor (ZPPR) and the Experimental Breeder Reactor-II (EBR-II) dome in the future of advanced nuclear
Find more episodes on iTunes, Spotify, and on our Titans of Nuclear YouTube. You can follow us on Twitter at @NuclearTitans.
John Jackson joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear to discuss:
1) John Jackson shares his experience growing up living off-the-grid and how he got involved in mechanical engineering and fracture mechanics.
2) How John reconnected with the Idaho National Lab and got involved with the Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear.
3) How the GAIN vouchers connect nuclear technology developers and the resources available at the National Labs.
4) Why the nuclear industry must unite to work towards demonstrations of new nuclear technology to fight climate change globally.
Find more episodes on iTunes, Spotify, and on our Titans of Nuclear YouTube. You can follow us on Twitter at @NuclearTitans.
Christine King joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear to discuss:
1) Christine King reflects on her time at EPRI where she focused on solving inherited material problems related to the use of Alloy 600 in steam generators.
2) Christine shares her personal journey to find purpose and how it impacted her career path in the nuclear sector.
3) The role of GAIN in the nuclear sector and the many ways it supports developers, investors, end users, and government programs.
4) A look at how new technology demonstrations and regulation reform will lead to the new nuclear market.
Find more episodes on iTunes, Spotify, and on our Titans of Nuclear YouTube. You can follow us on Twitter at @NuclearTitans.
Dave Amerine joins Jadwiga on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear to discuss:
1) David Amerine reflects on how his time in the Navy led to a broad career in the nuclear sector and shares the keys to building a safety-conscious work environment.
2) Lessons learned from years spent resolving management and operational issues at various nuclear facilities and how David led his teams through challenging obstacles.
3) David highlights some of the ways the nuclear industry has communicated well to share lessons learned, but makes a call to action for better public education on nuclear power.
4) How new nuclear technologies and small modular reactors will upend the nuclear industry and provide a path towards nuclear as a broadbase, reliable electricity source.
Find more episodes on iTunes, Spotify, and on our Titans of Nuclear YouTube. You can follow us on Twitter at @NuclearTitans.
Theo Nii Okai joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Theo Nii Okai recaps his career with the Volta River Authority and describes how Ghana began its path energy diversification.
2) How nuclear power will serve Ghana’s commitment to climate change and support regional economic development.
3) Ghana’s progress through the IAEA milestones and what it means for the Sub-Saharan region of West Africa.
4) How Africa is combating climate change for the good of the planet.
Find more episodes on iTunes, Spotify, and on our Titans of Nuclear YouTube. You can follow us on Twitter at @NuclearTitans.
Ed Lyman joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Ed Lyman reflects on the path that led him from physics to energy policy and how the Union of Concerned Scientists got started.
2) Ed discusses the cause and effect of the Fukushima accident and the long-term impacts on the industry.
3) A look at the responsibilities of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the commercial nuclear power sector.
4) Ed identifies some of the challenges of tracking radiation exposure and different tools available to critically analyze the data.
Find more episodes on iTunes, Spotify, and on our Titans of Nuclear YouTube. You can follow us on Twitter at @NuclearTitans.
Diane Cameron joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Diane Cameron shares her initial thoughts about nuclear energy and why she changed her mind, committing her career to the technology.
2) A review of Canada’s nuclear roadmap and how Diane helped it evolved into an action plan with a timeline.
3) Why Canada values its relationships with communities and stakeholders and how it impacts decision-making across the nuclear sector.
4) Diane highlights some of Canada’s timelines for establishing new nuclear power technologies on and off the grid.
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Vladimir Artisyuk joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Vladimir Artisyuk reflects on what it was like growing up in a Soviet Union town surrounded by nuclear technology and how it impacted his career choice.
2) Vladimir shares his path to three PhD’s in the nuclear sector and his areas of study.
3) How global experiences improve international relations and Russia’s mission to bring nuclear education to the world.
4) Russia’s strategy to fight climate change through innovative energy technologies.
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Kamal Araj joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) How Kamal Araj became involved with the nuclear sector and his mission to bring the technology to his home country of Jordan.
2) A look at Jordan’s current energy sources and the country’s first research reactor.
3) Insight into which SMR’s Jordan is currently considering and how they measure up to current energy sources.
4) Kamal’s perspective into why nuclear energy is a critical response to global climate change.
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Roy Payne joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Roy Payne introduces the UK’s Radioactive Waste Management division and how he became head of stakeholder engagement.
2) Why geological disposal of radioactive waste is a social and political issue, not a technical one.
3) Roy’s perspective on how to create a partnership with a community and engage them in long-term decision making.
4) How to shift the conversation about radioactive waste storage from short-term political decision-making to long-term community investment.
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Seth Kofi Debrah joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Seth Kofi Debrah shares his path into the nuclear power sector and his role in established a nuclear development plan for Ghana
2) A look at how supply chain development for the nuclear sector impacts the electrification of the Sub-Saharan African region
3) How the Ghana Atomic Energy Commission is focusing on educating its young citizens and preparing for an industrialized future
4) An overview of the challenges and opportunities in Ghana as it looks to bring its first nuclear power plant online
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Greg Cameron joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
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J'Tia Hart joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Dr. J’Tia Hart shares her path into the nuclear industry and introduces highlights of her early career.
2) Why perception and conversation are vital to the future of nuclear power domestically and globally.
3) How Dr. Hart is challenging historical demographics in the nuclear industry by advocating for underrepresented groups & encouraging others.
4) What policies are required for the U.S. to make progress in the nuclear field and how it impacts nuclear development internationally.
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Lee Causey joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Joining Duke Energy out of college and getting involved with NAYGN.
2) Becoming president of NAYGN and leading on advocacy for the nuclear industry.
3) Attracting a younger generation to the nuclear industry through innovation.
4) Providing relevant and accurate information to educate the public about nuclear energy.
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John Lindberg joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) John's career in nuclear spanning academia, industry, and politics.
2) Dedication to addressing radiophobia and the effects it has on the nuclear industry and social communities.
3) Developing communication strategies that get at the heart of key issues.
4) Reaching out to a broader audience and younger demographic about nuclear energy.
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Anton Simeonov joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Anton reviews his resume in the nuclear industry and provides a brief overview of Bulgaria’s nuclear power history
2) Why new nuclear projects have struggled in Bulgaria and the possibilities of bringing in new technologies
3) A call to action for nuclear industry stakeholders to ensure the long time stability and success of nuclear power
4) The strengths and challenges of working in the energy industry in Bulgaria’s current economic climate
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Gabriele Voigt joins Jadwiga on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
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1) Amir’s career from mechanical engineer to president of Orano TN
2) How Orano's integrated supply chain functions
3) Reasons behind poor public opinion on nuclear energy
4) Trends in government where nuclear is becoming more competitive
1) David Poston’s entrance into a career in space reactor development and how NASA’s Kilopower project came to be
2) The importance of simplicity in nuclear reactor designs and why David Poston committed to the use of a Stirling engine in his reactor prototypes
3) Future applications of the KRUSTY reactor experiment and why nuclear power is vital to space colonization
4) A summary of results from the DUFF and KRUSTY reactor experiments and what made them successful programs
Javier Guerra joins Jadwiga on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Tecnatom and its lines of action
2) Insights into the Long Term Operation of power plants
3) Spanish Nuclear Society and its efforts in educating the public
4) Digitalization, SMRs, Accident Tolerant Fuel and other new technologies that Tecnatom
contributes to.
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1) Nathan's career at Rolls-Royce
2) Foratom and its working groups focusing on up-to-date issues of nuclear in Europe
3) Supply chain issues and Research & Innovation in nuclear
4) The power of being a member in a nuclear society
Rich Deakin joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Rich Deakins looks back on how his education in metallurgy led him into operations management in nuclear fuel manufacturing
2) A look at how Rich brought success to some of nuclear fuel manufacturing’s biggest operations challenges in the UK
3) Why the UK is pursuing small modular reactor technology and how manufacturing methods can impact the success of the industry
4) Rich explains how the combination of government and private investments has decreased nationwide emissions and fed into the nuclear supply chain
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Chris Colbert joins Jadwiga on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Experiences in construction of fossil fuel plants and US-EPR project
2) The partnerships and new markets that NuScale is exploring
3) The position of NuScale and Light Water Technologies in the future nuclear industry
4) The optimization of manufacturing and future goals of NuScale
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Roger Howsley joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Roger tells Olu about his career from his start in health physics to becoming director of WINS.
2) Roger describes how he has witnessed the change of perception go from negative to positive and negative again during his career.
3) Roger describes the mission of WINS, security management and their relationship to the IAEA.
4) WINS is trying to normalize attitudes towards nuclear security by breaking down communication barriers and integrating with safety.
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David Otwoma joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) The birth of Kenya’s Radiation Protection Board and David Otwoma’s responsibilities as a radiation protection officer
2) A look into how David’s international travels as a safeguards inspector influenced his advisorship to Kenya’s national government
3) Kenya’s challenges in increasing electricity supply nationwide and how recent steps will ensure better access to electricity
4) David lays out the steps that need to be taken to retain talented young professionals in Kenya, with nuclear power as a key element
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Donald Carlson joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Donald shares his introduction to HTGR technology under the mentorship of Professor Rudolf Schulten
2) How misconceptions of graphite fires affection public understanding of nuclear accidents
3) Why spent fuel pool storage is the riskiest part of light water nuclear reactors
4) How public perception, cost, and existing political structures impact nuclear policy around the world
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In the final episode of the Nuclear Technology Series, Bret, Ed Pheil, and Andrew Daniels discuss the less common reactor uses and types such as for space travel, medical purposes, and everything in between. Be sure to listen to the previous episodes on Molten Salt, High-Temperature Gas, and Liquid Metal Reactors.
In part three of the Nuclear Technology Series, Bret continues his conversation with Andrew Daniels and Ed Pheil to discuss liquid metal reactors. Be sure to check out the first two installments of this series where the three discuss high temperature gas reactors and molten salt reactors.
In part two of our special Nuclear Technology Series, Bret, Andrew and Ed reconvene to discuss how molten salt reactors operate, the distinctions between which kinds they are, what type of salt is in them, and more. Be sure to check out part one in this series on high temperature gas reactors.
In the first episode of a four-part special miniseries, Bret Kugelmass invites Andrew Daniels (Author, After Fukushima) and Ed Pheil (Chief Technology Officer, Elysium Industries) to discuss nuclear technology. In this first episode, the three discuss high temperature gas reactors.
Wacław Gudowski joins Jadwiga on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) History of Swedish nuclear policies and cooperation between science and industry
2) Accelerator Driven Systems
3) The role of communication and teaching in the success of nuclear
4) Generation IV reactors and their future
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Craig Piercy joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Craig Piercy looks back on how his experience in policy led him to get involved with the American Nuclear Society
2) How the American Nuclear Society addresses challenging nuclear issues such as research funding and the public’s understanding of radiation
3) Craig analyzes the differences between risk-informed decisions related to COVID-19 and nuclear radiation and waste
4) Why nuclear power needs to be integral in combating climate change and the technical solutions that will get us there
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Elizabeth Muller joins Jadwiga on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Liz’s engagement in climate change research with Berkeley Earth
2) Waste disposal start-up called Deep Isolation and horizontal drilling technology
3) Entrepreneurial experience of entering spent fuel management field
4) Challenges of waste disposal and future plans
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Paul Dickman joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Paul Dickman provides an overview of his introduction to the nuclear space and his experience in nuclear waste and national security
2) How the Japanese government and electric utility managed the clean-up and community revitalization in the aftermath of Fukushima
3) A look at the concerns about dual use nuclear technology and how safeguard reviews are used to account for nuclear material
4) Conversations about radioactive waste and which different nuclear waste storage solutions were considered and vetted
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Hee Yong Lee joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Hee Yong Lee explains how Korea initially got involved in nuclear power plant development and the implementation of different reactor technologies
2) How Korea has achieved harmony among the nuclear reactor builders and the role standardization in successful contracting
3) A look into priorities of different stakeholders when it comes to nuclear power plant construction and operation, specifically in Korean communities
4) Why Korea’s nuclear development has slowed down and opportunities for bringing nuclear energy to new, developing regions
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Janne Wallenius joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Janne Wallenius introduces his research at KTH in Stockholm, Sweden, focused on nuclear fuel development, and how it led him to lead-cooled reactor technology
2) How disclosure of Russian lead-cooled reactor technology impacted global research, leading to the creation of Janne’s advanced reactor designs and his company, LeadCold
3) Why material science is crucial to the long-term success of advanced reactor designs, with a focus on corrosion and irradiation tolerance
4) Janne provides an inside look into the process of commercializing a new reactor design and how he plans to bring it to market
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Canon Bryan joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Canon Bryan explores his introduction to the natural resources industry and how it led him to a finance career in mining
2) How global industrialization led to a financial boom in the uranium mining sector
3) Canon maps out his five year path to discovering a new economical nuclear technology: molten salt reactors
4) A look at the economic viability of molten salt reactors as a competitor to natural gas power plants across the globe
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Leslie Compton Kass joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Leslie Kass is the Executive Vice President of the Technical center at TC Energy, working to make sure TC Energy is a learning organization. She also sits on the board of Bruce nuclear power plant, which TC energy is a joint investor.
2) Leslie believes now is the best time for energy companies to embrace effective communication strategies for the public and the local communities that they work in, taking an active role in telling the story of how they as the nuclear industry are adding value to the economy and providing clean-carbon free energy.
3) Nuclear energy will remain an important part of the energy mix for many years to come, as nuclear is one of the most viable options for baseload capacity while generating zero emissions.
4) Leslie recalls her time spent at NEI during the Fukushima accident and the crisis control she was part of managing, the responsibility of communicating and getting real facts out to a panicking public is particularly difficult but with strong collaboration between companies and individuals in the industry it was made possible.
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Suzanne Jaworowski joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) How Suzanne went from politics to energy
2) How she observed the way Indiana’s economics and energy affected each other
3) Bringing energy security to the U.S. and around the world
4) What is the best way to help provide energy security?
5) What is the Department of Energy doing to help communicate about nuclear energy?
6) Where is nuclear in 15 years?
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Steve Nesbit joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
- Over 35 years and counting in the nuclear industry,
- The role of climate change, carbon emissions, and other factors in bring nuclear back into the conversation)
- Steve runs through the projects he worked on while at duke energy that had the most impact on himself and his career.
- Steve discusses his time leading the spent fuel management division at Duke Energy.
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Edouard Hourcade joins Jadwiga on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Edouard’s background
2) Sodium Fast Reactor development and ASTRID project
3) Intellectual property and public communication after closing ASTRID program
4) Jules Horowitz reactor
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John Ahlberg joins Olu on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) John Ahlberg introduces the social landscape of Sweden and gives us a brief into the public understanding and acceptance of nuclear energy.
2) How the idea for Kärnfull Energi, Sweden's first 100% nuclear electricity provider, came to John
and his co-founder Christian, and how they set up the company and have been making positive waves since.
3) Outlook for Kärnfull Energi as they continue to grow, plans for the future of the company,
and John's personal motivations for choosing the nuclear industry even though he has a different educational and professional background.
4) The importance of correct information passed on to the public so people understand the
benefits of nuclear energy and begin the first steps in correcting the public discourse in Sweden.
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Katie Tubb joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Katie Tubb discusses her journey into the nuclear energy sector, from an intern who admitted to know nothing about where energy comes from to to an advocate for innovative energy and environment policy.
2) Katie Tubb shares her passion for nuclear technology, the issues with the nuclear industry assuaging people’s fears without educating them, and what the Heritage Foundation is doing to educate America on the nuclear industry.
3) Katie Tubb discusses the Blue Ribbon Commission’s report and the fundamental errors in the Nuclear Waste Policy Act and how Finland has used consent-based siting successfully.
4) Katie Tubb shares her optimistic outlook on the future of nuclear waste in the United States.
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Clinton Carter joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Modernizing Comanche Peak and More
2) Nuclear Safety Requirements and What Needs to Change
3) A New Industry Demonstration and the Role of Machine Learning in Nuclear
4) The Importance of the Legacy Fleet
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Scott Hsu joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Plasma Physics & Magnetic Reconnection
2) Fusion Programs at ARPA-E
3) Experiments in Electromagnetic Physics
4) Technical and Economic Feasibility of Fusion
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Julian Gadano joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Incorporating sociology into the nuclear sector
2) The Argentinian nuclear sector’s structure and reinvigorating the industry
3) The CAREM SMRs and the plan to commercialize and export these power reactors
4) Working towards a new nuclear by creating the need for nuclear power and supporting young nuclear professionals
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Bret Kugelmass is interviewed by Robert Dillon about the OPEN100 project presented by the Energy Impact Center. Learn more about OPEN100 at www.open-100.com
Host Bret Kugelmass shares an update on when Titans of Nuclear will return from hiatus, what the Energy Impact Center has been working on in the interim, and delivers a live reading of his recently published op-ed "Want to stop climate change? Embrace the nuclear option."
Andrew Sherry joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Andrew Sherry and Bret Kugelmass discuss nuclear history in the UK starting with magnox power stations and advanced gas-cooled reactors through the “dash for gas” in the 1980s and today's Nuclear Innovation Program.
2) The UK is the first country to agree to net zero carbon emissions by 2050. How nuclear could be an affordable solution by using a fleet approach, advanced manufacturing, and modular construction.
3) Andrew Sherry shares six key ways to promote nuclear innovation and affordability after a cross-sector innovation roundtable including technology, leadership, collaboration, risk, financing, and regulation.
4) How to implement innovation from other sectors and what the nuclear industry can learn from the US space industry and Elon Musk
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Adrienne Kelbie joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Adrienne’s uncommon route to the nuclear sector via the Lottery Fund
2) How the Office of Nuclear Regulation (ONR) is modernizing to engage in Advanced Nuclear Technologies (ANT) and increase accessibility
3) Changing the UK nuclear regulation process to decrease cost and foster innovation
4) Securing the future of the ONR by diversifying employee skill sets and focusing on outcomes
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Sainati Tristano joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) How Tristano Sainati transitioned from engineering to nuclear licensing regulation and what nuclear licensing frameworks are.
2) The prescriptive-based approach and performance-based approach to nuclear regulatory frameworks and how they may discourage innovation and nuclear competitiveness against other energy sources
3) The history of how international nuclear regulation began, spurred by the Chernobyl accident, and the lasting effects of a conservative approach to nuclear safety even today
4) How the future of nuclear power depends upon a perspective shift from innovation to legislation, requires mass production to reduce nuclear cost, needs a climate change led strategy, and requires governments to be brave.
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Giorgio Locatelli joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Giorgio Locatelli recounts his journey from Italy to the United States to learn about nuclear energy and how it became his career focus
2) How economic climate and project funding choices affect the global development of nuclear reactors
3) A look at the feasibility of nuclear reactor design and construction, both small and large
4) Giorgio provides a summary of the UK’s investigation into SMR financing methods and how regulations affect cost
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Julia Pyke joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Restarting the UK’s nuclear industry with Sizewell C
2) Copying the Hinkley design to save time and money and strengthen the UK’s supply chain
3) Turning to private capital and the regulated asset based model to finance Sizewell C
4) Incorporating “no regret” changes for Sizewell C to become a potential energy center
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Alice Cunha da Silva joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Alice Cunha da Silva explains how a degree in computer science led her all over the world to discover her passion for nuclear engineering and how she shares that passion with her community
2) How Brazil runs its nuclear industry a little differently, from its focus on communication strategies to its operational structures
3) Alice shares her perspective on growth and challenges in Brazil’s nuclear industry
4) An inside look into the engaging discussions and participation at the International Nuclear Atlantic Conference
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Claudio Almeida joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Claudio Almeida reflects on his international nuclear education and how it prepared him for a design review of Brazil’s first nuclear plant, Angra 1
2) How technical issues in Soviet-designed nuclear power plants were identified, analyzed, and corrected to improve plant performance
3) Claudio explains how Chernobyl changed the international nuclear industry and how safety missions were conducted at VVER and RBMK sites
4) A look at new nuclear organizations developed after Chernobyl and the current state of Brazil’s nuclear climate
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Celso Cunha joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Celso Cunha recounts his career working with Brazilian governments and private companies and how it led to his leadership at ABDAN
2) Celso explains the role of ABDAN in Brazil’s nuclear space and how it connects with the industry side of nuclear activities
3) An inside look at how Brazil is driving innovation in the regulation, development, and financing of nuclear around the country
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Carlos Freire Moreira joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Carlos Freire Moreira reflects on his time in the Brazilian Navy and how the civilian industry adapted Naval technology in the energy sector
2) Carlos gives an in depth look at INB’s goals of developing all levels of the uranium fuel cycle
3) How different applications for uranium and the state of other energy resources all lead back towards more nuclear energy
4) Carlos reviews current work within Brazil on how to focus regulations and diversify the country
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Leonam Guimarães joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Leonam Guimarães reflects on his career in the Brazilian Navy Nuclear program
2) The history of Brazil’s civilian nuclear sector and plans for future development
3) Leonam addresses challenges of changing technologies and how innovation can pave the way to success
4) How hydroelectricity and nuclear energy can be used together to balance Brazil’s electrical system
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Marcel Biato joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Marcel Biato explains how a career in diplomacy prepared him for work in the nuclear industry and the unique challenges that come with it
2) How Brazil is opening up the previously State-run nuclear industry to private companies and the history between Argentina and Brazil’s nuclear programs
3) Marcel shares the current state of Brazil’s Naval nuclear propulsion system and how new nuclear technology can provide base load power across the country
4) Why small modular reactors are attractive to Brazil and how the country is focusing on making the technology accessible
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Bianca Carpinelli joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Becoming the Undersecretariat of Nuclear Energy after studying the Hualong One reactor import
2) The three areas of the nuclear sector and how more communication is needed to push the industry forward
3) Argentina’s nuclear power reactors and SMR prototype development
4) How SMRs meet the demand for lower costs, shorter construction time and clean energy
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Kalev Kallemets joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Kalev Kallemets provides an inside look at Estonia’s political climate and how the country aims to tackle energy challenges
2) How the Baltic States share energy infrastructure and how that impacts power generation planning and development
3) Why the energy markets are changing across Europe and how it impacts power reliability
4) Kalev defends molten salt reactor technology and explains how deployment of SMRs in Europe will change the energy landscape
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Stefano Monti joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Fast reactor coolants and Russian deployment
2) Italy’s strong nuclear education despite the end of the state’s industry
3) The nonelectrical applications for reactor power, including hydrogen production and cogeneration
4) How SMRs take advantage of economies of series, rather than economies of scale, to decrease cost
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Mike Crapo joins Bret on the latest episode of Titans of Nuclear.
1) Idaho Senator Mike Crapo recounts his childhood in Idaho Falls, Idaho and how the nearby Idaho National Laboratory impacted his career in politics
2) How the economy and the environment can both benefit from win-win energy solutions
3) Crapo provides an overview of the NEICA and NEIMA nuclear energy innovation bills and how they will transform the current nuclear industry
4) Why a whole-of-government approach is necessary for strengthening the U.S. national energy, national security, and economic policies
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In this episode...
1) Nam Dinh shares his path to nuclear engineering and the international education and research that kicked off his career
2) Why nuclear reactors were not originally designed with failure scenarios in mind and how that has changed
3) Nam reviews how current research projects are changing the way technology and simulation impact the design and licensing of nuclear reactors
In this episode, we discuss...
1) Mohamed Bourham’s path to a career in nuclear from Egypt to Europe to North Carolina State University
2) Mohamed reviews his many areas of research, including electrothermal propulsion, radiation, waste, and material science
3) How dry cask storage for spent fuel has performed so far and why there are different ideas about nuclear waste storage
4) Mohamed explains how fusion is controlled with magnetic fields and the impact it has on materials in the fusion reactors
In this episode, we discuss how...
1) Jacob Eapen recalls his time working on safety analysis of the advanced heavy water reactor at the Bhabha Atomic Research Center in India
2) How Jacob expanded his career in the U.S. nuclear academic and industrial spaces to focus on computational material science
3) Jacob’s current and past research projects in the material science space includes analysis of high temperature properties of UO2 fuel
4) Jacob explains why accident tolerant fuels are being developed and some of the challenges faced in choosing a material for the fuel cladding
In this episode, we discuss...
1) Increasing measurement accuracy with gamma rays
2) Understanding cross sections, thermal neutrons and fast neutrons
3) The PULSTAR research reactor design and how it is used to produce positrons
4) Demonstrating inherent safety with small research reactors
In this episode, we discuss...
1) The difference between plasma and gas
2) How fusion differs from fission
3) How plasma enables low heat molecule deconstruction
4) The current and future uses of plasma for industry manufacturing and advancements
In this episode, we discuss how...
1) Yousry Azmy recalls his path to academia in the nuclear space and explains how neutrons interact in a nuclear reactor
2) Yousry Azmy discusses his research in solving the transport equation on unstructured grids and explains the levels of a reactor transport problem
In this episode, we discuss...
1) The Russian VVER and BN-800 designs
2) Developing optimization methods for the VVER at Penn State
3) How a lack of scientific support in Bulgaria caused nuclear scientists to move to western countries
4) Developing benchmarks with high fidelity simulations
In this episode, we discuss...
1) How radiation changes materials within a reactor
2) The advancement of electron-beam welding and the potential to decrease cost and extend reactor lifetimes
3) Strengthening materials by precisely deforming crystal structures with radiation
4) The need to deploy technological advancements to move the nuclear industry forward
In this episode, we discuss...
1) How he first became interested in nuclear engineering and what sparked his interest in academia
2) Robert’s post-graduate path to becoming an expert in radiation detection and how he became involved in designing nuclear facilities for safeguards
3) Robert reflects on his time in Washington as an advisor to the NNSA and how it brought him back to Purdue University as a full-time faculty member
4) A highlight of the Purdue University reactor and some of the current research projects utilizing the facility, including projects in physics and health science
5) Robert Bean explains some of the challenges of nuclear reactor deployment and potential benefits of building small modular reactors
In this episode, we discuss...
1) Allen’s early work in prevention of mutual interference in the naval reactors submarine force
2) How Allen transitioned from being a naval submarine officer to a biomedical graduate student studying modification of biological cells
3) How Allen’s research on electromagnetic interference at GE has been applied to create a non-linear transmission line at Purdue
4) Impacts on nano structures caused by intersections of different mechanisms in electron emissions and gas breakdown
In this episode, we discuss how...
1) Jason Harris reflects on his early interest in biology led to a career in nuclear engineering
2) Jason leans into health physics and how radionuclides are distributed throughout the environment
3) A comprehensive look at nuclear power plant emissions and the birth of the nuclear security field
4) Methods of analyzing and assessing security culture at organizations and how it impacts risk at a nuclear facility
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) How Three Mile Island sparked Juan’s interest in nuclear power and his journey to becoming a strategist for the Army’s Logistics Innovation Agency
(2) Saving lives and combating climate change by improving Army logistics by adopting nuclear power
(3) The current progress in developing a small modular mobile nuclear power plant prototype
(4) The importance of electrifying the military to maintain the technological edge
NOTE: Juan Vitali's personal opinions do not represent the U.S. Army's official position.
In this episode, we discuss how...
1) Lane's initial interest in nuclear and his college coursework that led him to teaching at Virginia Commonwealth University.
2) He worked, interned, and conducted research all over the field of nuclear in startups and laboratories, but eventually found his place in academia.
3) Lane encourages people to advocate for nuclear and talks about lessons he passes onto his students.
4) Lane discusses the future of nuclear domestically and around the world.
In this episode, we discuss...
1) How nuclear material neutrons are measured to verify amounts
2) The difference between plutonium-239 and plutonium-240 in the context of nuclear weapons
3) Life in the UAE as a nuclear postdoc
4) Decreasing the attractiveness of plutonium for weapons use with neptunium
In this episode, we discuss
1) James' career at Dominion and as a professor at Virginia Commonwealth University
2) How the Three Mile Island meltdown occurred and the more demanding safety culture that emerged
3) The potential for Probabilistic Risk Assessments to shift the safety culture
4) How the Final Safety Analysis Report and significant regulatory delays are harming the industry
In this episode, we discuss...
1) Michael discusses his background in math and how it led him to a career in the government
2) Michael explains the regulatory review process as it applies to domestic projects and international technologies approved abroad
3) Michael explains Chinese advancements in nuclear technology in comparison to North American innovation
4) Michael and Bret discuss the future of nuclear including financing, regulations, environmental assessments, and safety planning
In this episode, we discuss how...
1) Ramzi was introduced to nuclear early by family and university professors who were pioneers of the industry
2) Ramzi explains advances in the medical field due to nuclear technology
3) Ramzi breaks down negative perceptions about nuclear
4) Ramzi discusses recent changes to the nuclear field and his hopes for the future
In this episode, we discuss how...
1) Peter's background in physics engineering and interest in high temperature ceramics led him to the nuclear industry
2) Peter views the Defense and Depth Theory
3) The difference between repositories vs. dilution
4) Canada’s new impact assessments in the nuclear industry allow societal views to play into the nuclear industry
In this episode, we discuss how...
1) Rumina came to Canada as a refugee and became among the first women in the nuclear operations field
2) As a regulator it is essential to build public trust through transparency and data sharing
3) Her goal of the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission is to protect the environment, the public, and workers while also meeting international security obligations
4) Rumina discusses her hopes for the future of nuclear including involving more women and using nuclear to fight climate change
In this episode, we discuss...
1) Know How versus Know Why and how a reliance on rules can hinder innovation
2) How European states are supporting one another through the The European Nuclear Education Network
3) How increasing communication within the diverse industry sectors can help push the sector forward
4) Educating the public through reactor visits decreases fear and increases support of nuclear power
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) Germany’s Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and their nuclear research
(2) How other methods of containing accidents may be better but strict regulations and ignorance hinder implementation
(3) Short term versus long term nuclear waste storage
(4) Why Germany’s nuclear industry has ended and how this may affect the future of nuclear in other European countries
In this episode, we discuss
1) The Nuclear Society of Slovenia and Slovenia’s nuclear industry
2) How publicly reporting nuclear events can lead to overreactions and widespread media attention
3) How an inability to make decisions is blocking Slovenia’s nuclear future
4) The need for trusted influencers to educate the Slovene public about nuclear radiation
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) Radiation misconceptions and the importance of increasing education and communication
(2) GEN’s role in the Slovene nuclear industry and in Europe more broadly
(3) How renewable energies create volatile electricity markets, decreasing investment attractiveness
(4) The challenges involved in moving Slovenia to a zero carbon country
In this episode, we discuss...
1) HyperV Technologies’ focus on plasma jet magneto inertial fusion (PJMIF)
2) What PJMIF is and what the system components are
3) How further development is needed to achieve a smooth liner, a magnetized target and guns that can withstand the parameters
4) How additional funding is needed to accelerate development and bring fusion reactors to the break-even point
In this episode, we discuss...
1) The history of the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organization (ANSTO) and the current research reactor
2) Australia’s nuclear industry and the current inquiries to overturn the nuclear ban
3) How simulated bubble formation in pressurized water reactors are used in RELAP code
4) How China’s molten salt reactors and new HTGR will generate 540 gigawatts of capacity by 2050
In this episode we discuss...
(1) Helen’s journey from a country banning nuclear energy towards publishing a textbook on nuclear law and the creation of her own nuclear law practice
(2) The regulatory challenges facing SMRs for newcomer countries
(3) The importance of nuclear liability in legal frameworks and the minimum liability amount of 300 million SDRs
(4) Egypt’s deal with Russia to build 4 VVER1200 reactors and the negotiations involved in establishing Egypt’s nuclear program
In this episode, we discuss how...
(1) Ed got his start in nuclear by going to the Naval Academy
(2) Ed took a break from his nuclear career to attend Harvard Business School
(3) Ed discusses the difficulties making nuclear competitive in a market system versus a regulated system
(4) Ed discusses the future of nuclear in both the US and abroad
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) Rod Adam’s passion about nuclear energy
(2) How Rod started out as a Navy engineer in charge of a nuclear reactor on a submarine
(3) How Rod later opened his own nuclear energy company, Adam’s Atomic Engines
(4) How Rod now runs Atomic Insights, a website and podcast that acts as a scholarly resource and archive on the nuclear field
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) How the United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority became the commercial AA Technology nuclear practice
(2) How radioactive waste is disposed of in the UK, the US, and in Canada
(3) The importance of calibration when communicating radioactive waste and nuclear safety
(4) Establishing fertile SMR markets through effective communication and government commitment rather than technological advancement
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) The importance of optimizing the secondary side design to remain competitive in today’s nuclear landscape
(2) The interdisciplinary nature of the nuclear field and the shift in the reactor design process to focus on economics and safety
(3) The economic conclusions from Koroush’s small reactor design research and how lower source terms mean less stringent NRC requirements
(4) The factors that determine the number of fuel cycles and the decision to reuse fuel
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) Tim’s journey to the nuclear industry via Oxford University, the financial sector and government infrastructure projects
(2) How kickstarting the UK’s nuclear industry requires financial support from the government, a shift in design focus towards producing a product, and increasing supply chain and regulation efficiency
(3) How Tim helped shift the UK’s regulator towards a focus on outcomes rather than processes, creating more flexibility and a stronger relationship with industry
(4) How reaching the UK’s net zero by 2050 carbon goal requires education, new infrastructure and an energy portfolio that includes nuclear, renewables and carbon capture technology
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) The evolution from single to coupled physics simulations with increased computational power
(2) Increasing computation power of supercomputers to 1.4 exaflops with the Exascale Computing Project
(3) Natural circulation and other new design features increases the complexity of reactor simulations
(4) More partnerships between industry and National Laboratories are needed to produce more simulated data and to push the nuclear industry forward
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) How Atoms for Peace inspired Wade to enter science
(2) The importance of nuclear education for both young people and newcomer countries
(3) Why theater is a new way to educate the public about nuclear energy
(4) How nuclear power will be needed to provide food and water in the next century as climate change continues
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) Ben’s personal journey from anti- to pro-nuclear
(2) The importance of understanding identitarian politics when supporting a nuclear change of mind
(3) The challenges faced when changing identities
(4) Debating the value generated from radiation risk measures
In this episode, we discuss:
(1) Zabrina's introduction to the nuclear field through the Navy
(2) How Admiral Hyman G. Rickover shaped the nuclear industry
(3) General Atomic's TRIGA program and vision for future nuclear designs
(4) How the US FESAC committee will use information from ITER to map out a plan for commercial fusion power
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) Titans of Nuclear’s relationship to the Energy Impact Center and how it taught Naomi more about the nuclear industry
(2) Naomi’s graduate school plans and the importance of studying the spread of antibiotic resistance through water systems
(3) Naomi’s experience at the Fastest Path to Zero workshop
(4) How Naomi thinks the Titans for Nuclear podcast will evolve over time
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) Federico’s interest in sustainability as a motivation for entering the nuclear industry
(2) Gaining public acceptance through information rather than promotion and aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals
(3) How the IAEA and experienced countries support newcomer countries through knowledge transfer
(4) How focusing on economics, management and building human resources can lead to success for the nuclear industry
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) Why the UK’s Sellafield nuclear site will soon be decommissioned and how their graduate program moved Reuben into the nuclear sector
(2) How the Nuclear National Laboratory is researching the anti-corrosion chemistries of different nuclear reactor designs including fusion reactors
(3) Reuben’s involvement in the Young Generation Network and how he is working to share the next generation’s insights and accomplishments
(4) Researching how to engage the public better will improve nuclear acceptance and secure the future of the industry
In this episode, we discuss how...
(1) Bruce's role in the NRC approving the Clinch River Environmental Impact Statement
(2) The main considerations which go into developing an environmental impact statement for a nuclear power plant site
(3) How Bruce's up bringing and natural curiosity fueled his interest in site assessment
(4) Bruce's introduction to the nuclear field through the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
In this episode, we discuss:
(1) How Rose became interested in radioisotopes from an early interest in chemistry and medicine
(2) What an isotope is and how Actinium-225 is created
(3) Why the demand for Actinium-225 is increasing and the challenges the Tri-Lab Project faces in meeting this demand
(4) The role of education in radiation acceptance
In this episode, we discuss how...
(1) Jeremy Renshaw comes from a family of engineers and is raising children who are likewise passionate about math, science and robotics.
(2) He currently works at the Electric Power Research Institute, an independent nonprofit that conducts research and environmentally responsible demonstration projects to enhance the quality of life of people globally.
(3) Jeremy’s work in nuclear using robots to inspect dry spent fuel canisters; he discussed the need for dry fuel canisters due to the lack of repositories and the stalling of the Yucca Mountain project.
(4) He believes in the importance of research to increase the efficiency, safety and economic benefits to combat the negative perceptions of nuclear plants and discussed how the closer of current power plants is creating real risks to prevent imaginary ones.
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) The impact of Silent Spring and environmental concerns of the 1960s that fostered Ed's interest in toxicology
(2) How the LNT theory came into practice and how we can look at low dose radiation using Hormetic Biphasic Dose Response Relationships
(3) How modest amounts of stress, in the form of low dose radiation to the body can be beneficial
(4) How the regulatory and medical communities have been mislead towards an LNT viewpoint
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) How the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear disaster changed the trajectory of Chuck's career
(2) Lessons in leadership learned through Chuck's personal experiences at the Fukushima site
(3) Chuck's background in nuclear power plant construction and equipment operation
(4) The importance of reflecting on Fukushima and the special nature of nuclear technology
In this episode, we discuss how...
(1) Decreasing focus on design and adopting the copy and paste model to deliver projects on time and on budget
(2) The reasons behind Assystem’s continued focus and success in the nuclear industry
(3) Why education is needed to understand that decreasing energy consumption will not stop climate change
(4) Assystem’s strategy when partnering with countries to develop nuclear programs
In this episode we discuss how...
(1) The need for politicians to take on long-term issues and understand that decreasing electricity consumption is not a solution
(2) The difference between carbon emissions and carbon footprint and why the focus should shift towards decreasing overall carbon footprint
(3) Europe’s increasing electricity demand and the shift towards relocalization
(4) Making energy a strategic political issue
In this episode we discuss:
(1) Using the TRL and BRL scales to determine which innovation projects to invest in
(2) Monitoring nuclear reactor cracks using machine vision to save costs
(3) Creating nuclear facility maintenance schedules using predicted maintenance based on individual plant operating conditions
(4) Using AI to automatically extract data from 14 million physical nuclear reports
In this episode we discuss how:
(1) The new RAB finance model will attract long term investors to the UK’s nuclear industry
(2) Nuclear investment is needed for the UK to reach the Net 0 Target of 2050
(3) The Copy and Paste model decreases nuclear project risk
(4) The importance of educating children at a young age about nuclear power
In this episode, we discuss how...
(1) Assystem’s role in France’s nuclear industry
(2) The importance of mixed engineering teams when designing, constructing and commissioning nuclear power facilities
(3) Regulating fusion as a means to gain public support for nuclear power
(4) The role of ITER in the future of nuclear energy
In the Titans of Nuclear Chernobyl podcast series, we sat down with experts in the field of nuclear energy to take a dive into the HBO television series "Chernobyl".
In episode three, we talk with Robert Gale who discusses:
(1) Traveling to Moscow to treat Chernobyl accident victims and volunteering his expertise in bone marrow transplants
(2) Writing a critique of the inaccuracies found in HBO’s Chernobyl series
(3) An inaccuracy in portraying the victims as being radioactive when the victims posed no threat to the physicians
(4) Chernobyl was an unfortunate accident that should not have happened and should not reflect poorly on nuclear power
In the Titans of Nuclear Chernobyl podcast series, we sat down with experts in the field of nuclear energy to take a dive into the HBO television series "Chernobyl".
In episode two, we talk with Jerry M. Cuttler, DSc, who received his BASc-Eng degree in engineering physics from the University of Toronto and his MSc and DSc degrees in nuclear sciences and engineering from the Israel Institute of Technology. He is also the former President of the Canadian Nuclear Society and a member of the American Council on Science and Health Board of Scientific Advisors. Jerry discusses:
(1) Working in Romania when the Chernobyl reactor accident happened and how he measured the radiation and confirmed it was safe to remain where he was
(2) The 237 workers who suffered very painful, acute radiation syndrome (ARS) and the OECD-NEA report, “Chernobyl, 10 Years On”
(3) And other research findings
In the Titans of Nuclear Chernobyl podcast series, we sat down with experts in the field of nuclear energy to take a dive into the HBO television series "Chernobyl".
In episode one, we interview Andrew Daniels who is the author of After Fukushima: What We Now Know. Andrew discusses:
(1) Events that occurred at Chernobyl that were highlighted on the HBO show, and which events were missed out on
(2) Radiation dangers and the importance of how they're presented to the public
(3) Comparing Fukushima, Chernobyl and Three Mile Island and their role in shaping the public's perception of nuclear power
(4) Whether or not evacuation is necessary
(5) The timing of the HBO show and how audiences interact with television
(6) Russia's reaction to the HBO show
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) The founding principles of nuclear regulation
(2) The NRC’s new modernized approach to risk
(3) Licensing advanced reactors
(4) The opportunity for the NRC in the future of nuclear
In this episode, we discuss...
(1) How working with locals during the Embalse Life Extension Project helped secure the future of nuclear power in Argentinian communities
(2) The importance of refurbishments and how SNC Lavalin is learning from each CANDU refurbishment project
(3) Tim's work as Director of Field Services in maintaining and operating CANDU reactors for longevity
(4) How life extensions stack up to new builds and directions the nuclear industry can take in regards to each
(1) Ruben's early education in nuclear engineering during the Chernobyl incident
(2) The importance of educating the young generations in nuclear to be engaged in the next wave of nuclear designs
(3) Directions that SNC Lavalin is taking towards advanced technologies such as small modular reactors
(4) An innovation drive approach to the future of nuclear power for generations to come
(1) What Robert learned from working for ten years on maintenance issues at nuclear power plants
(2) Innovation which guided the design of equipment testing devices and life extension projects
(3) Shipping tooling systems to perform refurbishment processes on CANDU reactors worldwide
(4) How innovations in automation and advances in technology will help save money and time on retube outages
(1) SNC Lavalin's role in developing CANDU reactors and designing for advanced fuels
(2) SNCs strategy for bulding 1 CANDU reactor for every 4 PWRs
(3) How SNC Lavalin designs, develops and tracks their product development and performance
(4) Leveraging SNC's experience in licensing approval
(1) How growing up in Sweden shaped Christer's views on nuclear and eventual path to becoming a nuclear power plant operator the principal engineer at GE-Hitachi
(2) Designing nuclear power plants with licensing in mind to address pre-licensing and site specific licensing technicalities
(3) Simplifying system level changes in a nuclear power plants
(4) The MWRX300 small modular reactor and it's path to the commercial market in 2030
(1) How Emily's family and mentorship shaped how she uses her technical and business skills at GE-Hitachi
(2) Emily's transition from the wind industry to nuclear and lessons on creating capacity and developing supply chains that can be exchanged between the two
(3) How investors are shaping GE sales of new technology components such as new fuels , reactor services, and plant models
(4) Advocating for nuclear energy through public speaking and how to handle challenging questions
(1) Glen's introduction to nuclear engineering at the University of Florida and his early work on the interface of the fuel designers and the plant designers
(2) How GE used a down select method to focus on different reactor technologies and GE's early relationship with governmental nuclear efforts
(3) How the connections between nuclear technologies, safety and regulations shape the economics of the nuclear industry
(4) Developing a cost competitive design for the BWRX300
(1) Mona's progression from software development and finance to leadership at GE nuclear
(2) Leveraging data historically collected in the nuclear industry for plant optimization
(3) Moving to condition based maintenance to build profiles for nuclear power plant assets
(4) Change advocacy from a nuclear perspective: introducing nuclear to the public and innovation to nuclear
In this episode, we discuss how...
(1) Jon's path through the industry from handling fuel storage at Hanford to optimizing fuel production and working on services at GE Hitachi
(2) How the GE services division uses uprates to increase nuclear power production on a scale equivalent to building new nuclear power plants
(3) Jon's work on the ideation and inception of a design for small EWBRs, a high power output reactor, that could compete with combined gas
(4) The development of and target commercial markets for GE's BWRX 300 small modular reactor
(1) A risk informed approach requires adopting both PRAs and Defense in Depth and Safety Margins
(2) Three Mile Island played an important role in the use of RSS in nuclear regulation
(3) How Japan restructured their nuclear industry post Fukushima
(4) The challenges of communicating nuclear risk
(1) Dans introduction to nuclear nonproliferation through as an undergraduate and in his early career in the Department of Energy
(2) Leveraging market forces in the nuclear energy industry to address national security issues through the Megatons to Megawatts program
(3) Dan's upcoming work on developing centrifuges for the production of high assay low enriched uranium
In this episode, we discuss how...
- Joseph entered the nuclear energy industry through his work at the Office of Management and Budget
- Joseph's involvement in the MIT Energy Initiatives led to the formation of the Energy Futures Initiative
- Policy should balance the needs to mitigate and remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
We hope you enjoy the show!
In this episode, we discuss...
- Finis’ path away from fusion and into nuclear fuel and waste management
- The history behind nuclear fuel recycling
- How construction of St. Lucie Plant Unit 2 succeed in a post Three Mile Island era
- Improving fuel efficiency of nuclear reactors by reducing load-following
- Finis’ transition from Florida Power & Light to Idaho National Laboratory
- The inception of the Plutonium Focus Area project and how it addressed nuclear waste and environmental questions
- Finis’ focus on improving research and development as former Chief Technology Officer at Areva
We hope you enjoy the show!
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Ralph became interested in fusion
- The ways climate change goals shape Public Service Enterprise Group's energy strategy
- The importance of tackling climate change through nuclear energy and energy efficiency
In this episode, we discuss...
- Bill Ostendorff’s 26 year career as a Navy nuke and how it prepared him for the rest of his career
- Bill’s responsibilities as Principal Deputy Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration and Commissioner for the Nuclear Regulatory
- The importance of government investment in the nuclear industry today
In the Titans of Nuclear Chernobyl podcast series, we'll sit down with experts in the field of nuclear energy to take a dive into the HBO television series "Chernobyl".
This is episode zero, featuring Titan Bret Kugelmass. Naomi and Michelle discuss with Bret how the Energy Impact Center and Titans of Nuclear podcast are responding to the recent release of HBO's miniseries "Chernobyl", a discussion on which Titans would be best to sit down with and analyze the show and some surprising behind the scenes thoughts on what Bret, Michelle and Naomi felt after watching "Chernobyl".
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Seth Moulton’s background in physics and the Marines led to a political career
- Role of science in Congress and decision making
- Ways Congress encourages innovation to fund technical solutions
- Effect of automation on the American workforce and why an education revolution is the key to success
- How the green technology revolution affects energy, climate and national security
- Role of long term budgeting in energy development and planning for a carbon-free country
- Making climate change personal in Seth's pursuit of the Presidency
In this episode, we discuss...
- Bill Foster’s background as an entrepreneur and physicist
- An unintentional discovery Foster made while searching for proton decay
- Role of the FERMI National Accelerator Lab in the particle physics world
- How two generations of Fosters used their scientific expertise in public service roles
- Resources available to Congress for technical evaluation of specialty topics
- Why economics is the most important factor in decarbonization and fighting climate change
- Public perception of nuclear technology and how it affects levels of social acceptance
- Potential for accelerator-driven nuclear energy systems
- How Bill Foster strategizes energy policy reform as an Illinois Congressman
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Juan EibenSchutz Hartman’s engineering background led to a career in nuclear
- Why Mexico considered adding nuclear power to its energy mix and how it was achieved
- Mexico’s development of a decision analysis program through the Stanford Research Institute
- How public perception of nuclear technology became rooted in mistrust and what the nuclear community is doing to change it
- Why small modular reactors (SMRs) may transform the industry away from a tendency of non-uniformity
- A comparison of nuclear waste and other industrial waste in terms of perception and regulation
- Juan EibenSchutz Hartman’s responsibilities as Director General of Mexico's National Nuclear Safety and Safeguards Commission
In this episode, we discuss...
- Bob Ichord’s entrance into international energy research
- How the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) brings rural electrification to Southeast Asia
- How Chernobyl affected global safety and policy for nuclear reactors
- The future of US nuclear power export and import markets
- Nuclear’s role in urbanization and growth in developing countries
- Results of the Atlantic Council Task Force Report on U.S. Nuclear Leadership
- Importance of innovation and commercialization of small modular reactors (SMRs)
In this episode, we discuss...
- Jeff Navin’s high school dream of becoming a politician
- Changes in the energy policymaking atmosphere during the Obama Administration
- How politicization of climate change made the carbon emissions problem worse
- Strategically using advanced reactors to start climate conversations and get policymakers on board
- How setting a 100% clean energy goal will promote competition in technological advances
- Challenges faced by advanced reactors in the research and development field
- Why politicians seek out Jeff Navin and Boundary Stone Partners to help differentiate themselves on climate change
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Bob Walker’s career in the Canadian Department of National Defence led to his role as a nuclear energy leader
- Role of the National Research Universal Reactor (NRU) in radioactive medical isotope production for the global healthcare market
- Current status of CANada Deuterium Uranium (CANDU) reactor refurbishment around Canada
- Why Canada pursued CANDU and pressurized heavy water reactor design
- Canada’s development of an intricate logistics, transportation, and distribution plan for medical isotopes
- Options for used fuel storage and how the community is involved in the decision
- Applications of small modular reactors (SMR’s) in Canada and across the globe
- Bob Walker’s path to becoming the Chief Executive Officer of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Margie’s upbringing influenced her career
- How nuclear export licensing works and why it’s important to the safe handling and security of nuclear materials
- Why it was important for Margie to consider transboundary effects of Fukushima when negotiating to affirm the IAEA’s post-Fukushima frameworks
- How the Supreme Court’s post-Fukushima ruling against the NRC’s Waste Confidence policy caused an abrupt halt in plans for domestic and international nuclear power plant construction
- How Margie’s 3-step risk assessment process helped propel her to the top of the NRC
- How training staff on new and different technologies, such as SMRs, will help propel NRC regulations forward
In this episode, we discuss...
- How a high school project on propulsion led to Marc Nichol’s career in nuclear energy
- Responsibilities and considerations for managing spent fuel on-site and off-site
- A comparison of costs and markets for small modular reactors (SMR’s) and micro-reactors
- How Alaska is preparing for deployment of groundbreaking micro-reactor technology
- Future capabilities of the nuclear industry to provide energy for electricity, heating, and transportation
- How Marc Nichol connects with communities, industries, and governments as Director of New Reactor Deployment at the Nuclear Energy Institute
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Akira Tokuhiro’s interest in race car design inspired him to study nuclear engineering
- Research for the Japanese sodium cooled fast reactor
- How nuclear energy safety culture and public risk perception compares to other industries
- Responsibilities of being a director and licensed operator of a university experimental reactor
- Safety challenges of graphite-moderated nuclear reactors
- How the nuclear industry united to address the accident at Fukushima
- Benefits of NuScale Power’s small modular reactors (SMR’s)
- Akira’s development of a new Bachelor of Technology in Sustainable Energy Systems at Ontario Tech University
In this episode, we discuss...
- Jackie’s collegiate upbringing in North Carolina pursuing International Relations
- Jackie’s transition into nuclear energy studies in graduate school and her Graduate Thesis on “Nuclear Disinheritance”
- How Jackie gained experience in nuclear at the Stimson Center
- The development of the Organizational Governance Template for Nuclear Security
- Jackie’s work at Third Way in the Clean Energy Program
- The newly enacted Nuclear Energy Leadership Act (NELA)
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Evan Sengbusch’s background in physics led him to his current role as President of Phoenix
- Production of lower energy, higher current deuteron accelerators as neutron sources
- The roles preserving research reactors and producing a domestic supply of Molybdenum 99 play in the nation’s medical industry
- New capabilities of thermal neutron imaging and fast neutron imaging
- The development of neutrons as an inspection tool for complex, high density materials and components
- How Phoenix’s partnership with SHINE could change medical radioisotope production in the US
In this episode, we discuss...
- The role of the Atomic Energy Corporation in South Africa’s nuclear development
- System challenges of dramatically scaling nuclear technology
- Innovative nuclear solutions to service the vast population differences in South Africa
- Germany’s role in educating and supporting South Africa’s pebble-bed nuclear reactor
- Groundbreaking postgraduate nuclear programs Mulder founded at North-West University
- X Energy’s mission to commercially establish pebble-bed reactor technology and spread it throughout the world
- Challenges of obtaining clientele and licensing for new nuclear technology
- Evolution of the pebble-bed nuclear reactor and the energy potential it can bring to the U.S. electrical grid
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Three Mile Island and the oil embargo influenced Shane to pursue nuclear engineering
- How Shane helped support university test reactors through his role at the Office of Nuclear Energy
- How tritium influenced the history behind the Office of New Production Reactors national security program
- Creating a roadmap for Generation IV reactor development and deployment
- How contracting to end users can help mobilize new nuclear
- The driving issues behind construction and deployment of new nuclear technologies
- How the Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear (GAIN) program united research and design efforts
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In this episode, we discuss...
- How nuclear engineering and health physics are connected in education and industry
- Insight into radiation protection design and emergency planning
- How Susan Landahl broke down gender barriers in nuclear power plant operation
- Models, such as the linear no-threshold theory, which are used to analyze radiation dosage and related health effects
- The role of virtual reality in nuclear power plant training and operation
- Improving all aspects of the nuclear industry through a culture of innovation
- Nuclear power’s place in the U.S. electrical grid
In this episode, we discuss...
- Kathleen Barron's background in nuclear and how she came to be Senior Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Exelon
- How the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) restructured the electricity industry to become more competitive
- Assessing legal sustainability of changes to energy infrastructure
- How FERC manages concerns related to market rates and environmental impacts
- Regional impacts on the electrical grid energy balance and how clean energy is integrated
- Decarbonization implications of producing the energy source versus energy extraction
- Legal challenges of saving existing nuclear reactors from decommissioning
- State influence on nuclear energy generation and financial implications of their decisions
In this episode, we discuss...
- Fewell’s law background that led him towards the energy industry
- Fewell’s first position with the NRC, and the responsibilities, experiences and relationships he accumulated while there
- Fewell’s transition into the private sector working for Exelon Generation
- Fewell’s cases with Exelon revolving around Security, Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
- Generation Nation – Exelon’s local nuclear advocacy program for its employees and their communities
- Fewell’s marketing strategy to combat irrational stigma on nuclear energy
In this episode, we discuss...
- Mara Levy's personal journey through the nuclear industry and her day-to-day at Exelon
- The impact of hands-on education for nuclear engineering students
- What the new fuel receipt process looks like in preparation for a nuclear refueling outage
- Roles and responsibilities of an on-site reactor engineer
- Why power descents at nuclear plants are needed and how they are coordinated
- Stakeholders involved in power maneuver planning
- Outreach efforts of North American Young Generation in Nuclear
- Public education efforts of Generation Nation
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Michael Gallagher entered the power generation industry
- The different management roles at a nuclear power plant
- The differences between boiling water reactors and pressurized water reactors
- Methods for controlling radiation and shaping power in a boiling water reactor
- The effects of fuel design and core efficiency on nuclear fuel consumption
- Requirements for a nuclear power plant renewal license application
- Federal limitations on the life cycle of a nuclear power plant
- Global impacts of affordable and reliable energy sources
In this episode we discuss...
- Marilyn Kray's personal journey through the nuclear industry
- How different engineering disciplines collaborate to make a nuclear plant operate
- The role of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in the design and construction of nuclear power plants
- How the culture between utilities and regulators in the nuclear industry has evolved over time
- What it takes to prepare and execute a nuclear plant refueling outage plan
- Licensing options for existing and newly designed nuclear plants during design, construction, and operation
- How traditional utilities and investors are getting involved with new nuclear technology
- Education efforts supported and funded by the American Nuclear Society
In this episode we discuss...
- An overview of Exelon Generation’s developmental history and successful expansion across the US
- A glimpse into Hanson’s upbringing throughout his childhood and academic pursuits in nuclear engineering in Madison, Wisconsin
- Hanson’s experiences in his first position as a nuclear engineer with the Quad Cities Nuclear Power Station, and his professional climb towards his current position as Chief Nuclear Officer
- Hanson’s optimism for educating public opinion on the science of nuclear engineering and it’s minimal effects on the environment
- The development of worldwide standards of excellence in nuclear engineering thanks to the US Nuclear Fleet, the Institute of Nuclear Power Operators, and the World Association of Nuclear Operators
- Hanson’s leadership strategy as Chief Nuclear Officer at Exelon Generation, as well as new initiatives for the future of nuclear engineering
In this episode we discuss...
- Why nuclear power was important to building South Korea's economy
- How standardizing nuclear reactor development led to the success of the OPR and APR-1400 reactors
- Why South Korea’s partnership with ABB-Combustion Engineering has been so successful
- How South Korea is helping the United Arab Emirates develop their own nuclear power plan
- Why uniting utilities under one umbrella might be the best way to cut costs in the nuclear power industry
- How South Korea is helping Kenya develop into a medium-level industrialized nation by 2030
In this episode we discuss...
- Gerry’s research and involvement in tissue banking and molecular pathology during the aftermath of the 1986 Chernobyl disaster
- The studies and effects of thyroid cancer based on age, environment, and adequate research & evidence
- Being a pro-nuclear scientist in the scientific community
- The common misconceptions about nuclear energy and it's risk factors
- Gerry’s involvement in the Chernobyl Tissue Bank and how that research paved the way for the work of the Imperial Tissue Bank today
- How the Imperial Tissue Bank’s epidemiology studies can be used to effectively change policy on nuclear energy
In this episode we discuss...
- Michael Reichenberger’s entrance into the nuclear industry as a mechanical engineer
- How fission detectors measure neutrons in nuclear reactors
- The design, development, and deployment of Micro-Pocket Fission Detectors in a test reactor
- Advantages of the Advanced Test Reactor for nuclear fuels and materials testing
- Benefits of real-time sensors in test reactors and how they impact development of commercial reactors
- The potential value of real-time sensors in the operation of advanced reactor designs
In this episode we discuss...
- Neal’s role at the Nuclear Energy Institute and what nuclear energy has to offer to society
- The importance of having advocates for nuclear energy that communicate the benefits of nuclear energy
- How to overcome the general public’s concerns about nuclear power through education
- New technologies being used in old power plants to improve efficiency, production, and safety
- The economics of exporting nuclear power and why the United States wants to lead this movement
- The importance of established nuclear energy as a base load power source to support renewable energy
- How early education about nuclear power can influence public perception about the industry and its technology
- A call to action for cooperation between generations to work towards a future without global warming through the use of nuclear technologies
In this episode we discuss...
- Technical challenges of scaling up high temperature nuclear power plant designs
- The relationship between nuclear power generation efficiency and reaction temperature
- The effects of oxidation and carbonization on turbine blades in different nuclear reactors
- How nuclear reactor designs plan for long-term material degradation in critical components
- Modern methods of analyzing effects of radiation on metal alloys
- How the impacts of neutrons on metal lattice structures drive material design
- Performance criteria for critical components of nuclear plant materials
- How today’s nuclear industry is reinvesting in nuclear-related education and research
In this episode we discuss...
- Why water is the best coolant in any reactor
- Why molten salt reactors (MSRs) are a safeguard’s nightmare
- How molten salt reactors differ from lightwater reactors
- Why the Experimental Breeder Reactor II would be the best fuel reprocessing solution
- How nuclear energy can stop climate change in its tracks
- Why the mass production of nuclear reactors is the only way to solve China’s energy demands
In this episode we discuss:
- What a nuclear fuel cycle is and how it is analyzed
- How a surplus of enriched uranium impacts nuclear fuel prices
- The connection between high enrichment nuclear fuel and inherent safety features
- How negative temperature coefficients affect nuclear heat transfer
- Computational tools for analyzing the nuclear fuel life cycle and transfer methods
- Costs and benefits of nuclear waste reprocessing and how nations manage it
- Long term safety considerations for nuclear waste disposal of different isotopes
- Competitive advantages of nuclear energy and its impact on computational science
In this episode we discuss...
- Utility-owned design and construction of nuclear reactors
- The impact of constructability in innovative nuclear reactor designs
- Challenges of the V.C. Summer nuclear project
- How to turn nuclear design mistakes into lessons learned for the future
- Financial challenges of new nuclear technology development, like mPower
- How generalizing small modular reactor designs affect cost and schedule
- Differences between nuclear industry visions and realistic expectations for production
- Opportunity cost benefits of nuclear energy that provide an all-around energy solution
In this episode we discuss...
- How Paula Maguire worked her way up to become a training manager for Ontario Power Generation
- The purpose and structure of a utility training organization
- How collaboration between utility stations can impact a plant’s operations and the nuclear industry as a whole
- How to inspire your utility workforce and maximize their value at the station
- The importance of leadership in a highly technical field such as nuclear energy
- The purpose of operational safety analyses and how they differ across the globe
- The impact of transparency and open communication in the nuclear industry
In this episode we discuss...
- How Sean Donnelly was inspired by the dynamic and unique challenges of the nuclear industry
- How AR can help improve human efficiency in nuclear
- The important role Kinectrics has played in helping to develop nuclear technology
- How the U-Battery is revolutionizing the future of nuclear reactors
- Why triso fuels are the best choice for the U-Battery
- Kinectrics' hopes to deploy the U-Battery in Canada and the U.K. simultaneously
- Why placing U-Batteries at Chalk River and Urenco would be the best models for what this technology can do for costs and power generation
- Nuclear's pivotal role in the future of clean energy
In this episode we discuss...
- How Doug Jensen’s concern for the environment led to his work in nuclear energy
- Why Doug Jensen believes that nuclear power is the answer to our climate change problems
- How Cameco has become so specialized at producing zirconium tubing for nuclear fuel
- Why Improving fuel manufacturing efficiency leads to great benefits for nuclear power plants
- Why long-term guarantee contracts are so important for making capital improvements to the manufacturing process
- How Cameco has fostered crucial customer relationships in the nuclear industry
- Cameco's role in the future of SMRs -Why SMRs make the most sense to replace fossil fuels with clean energy
In this episode we discuss...
- Howard Shearer’s background in the nuclear industry before becoming Hitachi Canada’s CEO
- Providing technical solutions to clients with multi-sector collaboration
- The Future implementation of nuclear technology across sectors
- Corporate responsibility and the social impacts of nuclear energy deployment
- How large multinational corporations can support technology development and implementation
- Data security in the energy generation industry
- Importance of continuing education in the energy industry
In this episode we discuss...
- Matthew Mairinger’s passion for nuclear engineering and the nuclear industry
- A deep dive into the North American Young Generation in Nuclear (NAYGN)
- How industry youth groups are influencing the future of nuclear energy
- Tools developed to educate and prepare the next generation of nuclear engineers
- The importance of bridging the gap between clean energy industries
- The power of everyday conversation in restoring the public’s confidence in nuclear energy
- How small modular reactors (SMR’s) could change the future of energy in rural Canada
In this episode we discuss...
- How Colleen DeMerchant got involved in nuclear insurance
- Why Fukushima has made nuclear site safety even stronger
- How nuclear insurance pools work and why they foster important collaboration between insurers
- How SMRs will diversify nuclear liability coverage in the future
- Why extending nuclear liability time may raise questions and concerns in the insurance industry
- How insurers are meeting higher liability amounts for the nuclear industry across the world
In this episode, we discuss...
- John Barrett's push for Canada to become a leader of clean global nuclear energy
- How John helps develop verification processes for nuclear disarmament and arms control
- How John's work in NATO and the Canadian Defense Department has helped safeguard nuclear energy
- How John uses the skills he gained as a speechwriter to help make nuclear policies more accessible to the public
- John's work as the Canadian Ambassador to Vienna
- How just 4 or 5 CANDU nuclear reactors in Alberta would virtually eliminate their provincial carbon footprint
- How CANDU nuclear reactors are garnering a new kind of relationship with traditionally difficult governments
- How Canada has helped reduce the use of carbon fuels with their CANDU reactors on a global scale
In this episode we discuss...
- Zhong He’s path to physics and the study of radiation detectors
- How different materials interact with gamma rays in semiconductor detectors
- Using electrons and electron whole pairs to determine gamma ray energy
- The impact of charge trapping in semiconductor detectors
- Practical application of high precision gamma rays
- Benefits of radiation imaging compared to radiation sensing
- Calculating the location of gamma ray sources through the use of radiation detectors
- How to support the next generation of physics education
In this episode we discuss...
- How Sara Pozzi helped design international nuclear disarmament verification technologies at Oak Ridge
- The difference between active and passive interrogation in detecting nuclear materials
- Challenges of detecting nuclear materials smuggled in on container ships
- What the IAEA is doing to help promote non-proliferation of nuclear weapons around the world
- Why spent nuclear fuel is still a proliferation threat to the world
- How the Department of Energy’s Consortium initiatives are training nuclear engineers for the workforce
- Why Sara believes we need to be focusing on detecting and characterizing special nuclear materials to keep us safe
In this episode we discuss...
- Alec Thomas’ path to plasma physics at the University of Michigan
- Challenges of modeling an atom
- How laser plasma accelerators create energy
- The interactions between charged particles and plasma wave oscillations
- Benefits of plasma accelerators compared to high energy physics accelerators
- The use of titanium-doped sapphire crystals in lasers
- Plasma technology for medical applications
- Economic advantages of laser plasma accelerators
In this episode we discuss...
- James Duderstadt's beginnings in science and academia and his journey through the nuclear industry
- James’ work on Project Rover, an American project to develop a nuclear thermal rocket
- Why James believes nuclear energy is a viable answer to reversing climate change
- How the University of Michigan played a crucial role in the creation of the Internet and pioneered the Hathi Trust digital library project
- How regulated markets have driven up the price of building nuclear plants in the United States
- Why big companies aren’t investing in higher education anymore
- The incredible benefits Artificial Intelligence could mean for nuclear and the obstacles James believes AI must first overcome
In this episode, we discuss...
- How Steven Freel began work in the nuclear industry building nuclear control room simulators
- Steven’s path through the nuclear industry, including his time at startup companies like Singer Link (now GSE Systems)
- How Steven’s unconventional approach to leadership helped spotlight him for CEO of Studsvik Scandpower
- Ways in which Studsvik Scandpower is changing how fuel is chosen and managed at power plants
- The divisions of Studsvik and ways in which the company’s new software technologies are making power plants more efficient
- Steven’s vision for the future of nuclear and what it will take to change public perception
In this episode we discuss...
- Joshua Goldstein’s background as an environmentalist and politician
- Sweden’s successful build-up of nuclear power and lessons learned from Germany’s build-up of renewable power
- How to normalize nuclear energy by educating the public on its risks and benefits
- Future global energy demand and the necessity of nuclear energy
- Promotion of global decarbonization with a nuclear power backbone
- Impacts of marketing in developing public perceptions of different energy sources
- Creating a smarter economy to solve climate change
- Goals of the Nuclear Energy Modernization Act for future reactor licensing
In this episode we discuss...
- The renewed enthusiasm by vendors and contractors for nuclear power in the Americas
- Why public perception needs to improve to make nuclear power a viable option in some areas
- Advancements in structural analysis techniques allow for more robust plant designs
- How younger engineers and Puerto Ricans are impacting the nuclear industry in a positive way
- Why United States nuclear industry leaders are relied upon to advance nuclear interests worldwide
- How SMRs offer opportunities to advance nuclear power generation in the U.S. and worldwide
- How SMR design allows for core cooling without reliance on external power sources
- Ways in which Puerto Rico could implement SMRs to meet their energy needs
In this episode we discuss...
- Rex’s academic background & background at NASA
- Rex’s focus at Teledyne Technologies
- How Rex transitioned to nuclear
- BWXT’s role supporting US Navy
- Market innovation at BWXT
- Technology innovation at BWXT
- Other clients of BWXT
- Future of nuclear energy in U.S.
In this episode we discuss...
- Susan Eisenhower on growing up as the granddaughter of President Dwight Eisenhower
- The origins of her fascination with US-Soviet relations
- How her career began in corporate strategic marketing and took her to arms control and nuclear energy
- The Megatons to Megawatts Program
- The benefits of a cross-disciplinary approach to problem-solving
- How nuclear energy makes the world not just cleaner, but safer
- Why policymakers need a better strategy for international relations, for nuclear energy, and for climate change
- What it will take to make headway on climate change
In this episode we discuss...
- Philip Sharp’s entrance into politics and energy policy
- Significant changes in the energy industry in the 1970s and 80s
- Environmental regulation vs. economic regulation
- Sharp’s accomplishments in Congress
- The role of educational institutions such as Harvard in energy
- The overall role of RFF
- Sharp’s research with RFF
- The future of energy policy in the US and the world
In this episode we discuss...
- Lessons learned from the Three-Mile Island accident
- The importance of information sharing among the nuclear industry to increase safety
- Refocusing of priorities regarding the NRC’s regulatory responsibilities
- Post 9/11 refocusing on safety and robust engineering
- Implementing lessons learned from the Fukushima accident
- Functions of the NRC and reactions to recent events
- Collaboration among countries and joint research projects are beneficial to the nuclear industry
- Prospects for the future of the nuclear industry
In this episode we discuss...
- Mark Lewis’ career trajectory in finance and energy as Head of Global Business Development at General Electric and Chief Business Officer at Tri Alpha Energy
- Mark Lewis’ work acquiring Amersham, Silex, and Hitachi Nuclear Energy for General Electric
- How Tri Alpha Energy radiation-free fuel path uses hydrogen and boron for nuclear fusion
- Nuclear fusion efforts to provide a large firm load of carbon-free and radiation-free energy
- Driven by natural disasters, the focus on micro grids and the need for grid resiliency and lower carbon energy
- Tri Alpha Energy’s use of plasma physics and accelerator physics to stabilize plasma in nuclear fusion
- How terrestrial fusion and plasma physics can be used to provide carbon-free energy
- How to finance a lower carbon economy with wind, solar, and nuclear power
In this episode we discuss...
- Bob’s background in fusion and personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Bob’s day-to-day as Chief Executive Officer at Commonwealth Fusion Systems
- Bob’s graduate work at MIT researching new technologies to solve fundamental challenges with fusion
- Superconductors, their applications, and how Bob has significantly contributed to their productization
- The mechanisms that enable superconductors to operate at very high temperatures
- Why only 3 of over 100,000 superconductors have been commercialized
- How collaboration between academics and industrialists is helping to drive fusion technology into the marketplace
- Bob’s mission to expedite superconductivity commercialization so that it can be deployed globally
In this episode we discuss...
- Dennis’ background and personal journey in the nuclear industry
- A deep dive into tokamaks and their innerworkings
- The definition of a plasma
- Why heat and density are crucial to successful fusion and the material challenges involved
- How tritium is extracted from lithium
- Requirements to prevent coolant itself from becoming radioactive
- Design challenges surrounding fusion systems including pumps and their inability to distinguish between helium and unburned fuel
- The physics of magnetism
- Dennis’ mission to change the global nuclear industry through his work at MIT to make fusion economically viable
In this episode we discuss...
- Jacopo’s background in techno-economic analysis and personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Jacopo’s work at the Idaho National Laboratory before he returned to his alma mater MIT as a professor of nuclear science and engineering
- Lead-bismuth reactors and the processes within
- Jacopo’s contributions to MIT Energy Initiative’s recent report, “The Future of Nuclear Energy in a Carbon-Constrained World”
- Why Jacopo believes when it comes to reducing cost we should focus on improving construction methods rather than changing coolant or fuel
- A breakdown of the costs involved in building a new plant
- Inaccuracies in cost prediction surrounding AP-1000 and EPR and ways in which we can improve cost prediction
- The benefits of assembling several microreactors to take advantage of economies of multiple versus economics of scale of size
- Shipyard building and how Jacopo’s research at MIT works to reduce construction costs
In this episode we discuss...
- Mark’s background in biology and personal journey in the nuclear industry
- A behind the scenes look at the Canada Nuclear Laboratory team and how each department coordinates with the others
- The lifecycle of nuclear plants and Mark’s evolution from repairing to decommissioning plants
- The decommissioning of Rocky Flats Plant, a nuclear weapons production facility that now serves as a model for other decommissioning projects
- The cleanup processes involved in decommissioning
- Mark’s work with British Nuclear Fuels Limited and then later as Chief Nuclear Officer for Magnox South
- Chalk River Laboratories and its important place in nuclear history
- Challenges with media and public perception surrounding nuclear energy and weapons
- A deep dive into CANDU (Canada Deuterium Uranium) reactors
- The benefits of SMRs and Canada Nuclear Lab’s mission to facilitate global implementation
In this episode we discuss...
- Rosaura’s interest in nuclear from a young age and her journey through the industry
- Rosaura’s PhD in material science at McMaster University where she focused on ceramics processing
- A deep dive into the importance of ceramics processing in regards to creating nuclear fuel
- Magnetic shape memory alloys
- Challenges associated with fuel processing and manufacturing and how Canada Nuclear Labs is working to overcome them
- What drives requirements for creating new fuel from spent fuel and the economics involved
- Canada Nuclear Lab’s research regarding new fuels and their increased safety
- The ratio of plutonium-239 and plutonium-240 and how it changes over fuel’s lifespan within a reactor
- The importance of waste management technology to nuclear success
In this episode we discuss...
- Metin’s background in mechanical engineering and personal journey in the nuclear industry
- A deep dive into CANDU (Canada Deuterium Uranium) reactors
- The inner mechanisms that cause steam reactor tubes to fail and how we’ve overcome this issue
- Metin’s work in thermal performance and degradation studies
- The neutronics and safety systems in PWRs and BDWs versus those in light water reactors
- A breakdown of supercritical water
- How technologies and designs within supercritical coal plants could potentially be recycled to create supercritical nuclear plants
- Lessons learned from light and heavy water reactors and how Canada Nuclear Labs is applying those lessons to new technologies
- The Pan-Canadian SMR Initiative and its mission to facilitate global implementation
In this episode we discuss...
- Corey’s background in nuclear engineering and personal journey from Los Alamos to Canada Nuclear Labs
- The history of US nuclear including the Nuclear Renaissance and the Energy Policy Act of 2005
- Corey’s contributions to nuclear startup NuScale Power
- Challenges in nuclear across India and Asia including infrastructure, training, and corruption
- Corey’s work for an electrical supplier of cabling and the safety systems involved
- International issues with CFSI (Counterfeit Fraudulent Suspect Items) and their toll on public trust
- Canada Nuclear Lab’s world class hot cells
- The future of Canada Nuclear Lab and its work surrounding light water reactors and sustainability
- A deep dive into fuel qualification
- Canada’s new build market and the significant role it plays in the global industry
In this episode we discuss...
- Kathryn’s background in nuclear engineering and personal journey in the nuclear industry
- The evolution of fusion and a deep dive into liquid metal magnetohydrodynamics
- Kathryn’s work with liquid metal magnetohydrodynamics in the Soviet Union
- A deep dive into volatilization
- The Advanced Fuel Cycle Initiative aka The Fuel Cycle R&D Program and Kathryn’s work optimizing the backend of the fuel cycle
- Low level waste repositories and the political challenges surrounding new repository sites
- Canada Nuclear Lab’s mission to promote SMR’s (small modular reactors)
- How a healthy dynamic between national laboratories and the industry can spur implementation
- Canada Nuclear Lab’s work in the hydrogen space
- Canada versus US regulation timelines and alternative paths to expedite licensing
- Canada Nuclear Lab’s research surrounding radiation and targeted alpha therapy and their potential impact on the industry at large
In this episode we discuss...
- Janice Dunn Lee’s 40-year journey through nuclear from her position in Export Licensing at the NRC to that of Deputy Director General at the IAEA
- Janice’s early career in Export Licensing at the NRC including her work preventing the weaponization of nuclear materials and reactors through IAEA safeguards
- The relationship between Congress and the NRC and the ways in which Congress oversees build and appropriations
- Intricacies of international nuclear agreements including 123 agreements for nuclear cooperation between the US, Japan, and China
- The importance of bilateral and multilateral cooperation agreements in helping countries learn the regulations, inspection processes, and licensing in other countries
- The decline of U.S. leadership in the nuclear field against Russia and China and the negative effects this could pose for the industry’s future
- Humanitarian aspects of nuclear and the IAEA’s work in human health including cancer therapy and ebola prevention
- How credible, relevant nuclear advocates can help reignite the US nuclear industry
In this episode we discuss...
- Ed’s background in the US Navy and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Ed’s work designing nuclear submarines, aircraft carriers, and space crafts for the Navy
- General Dynamics and Huntington Ingalls and their respective roles in nuclear construction
- Uranium hexafluoride gas reactors and the processes within
- Nuclear opponents and their negative effects on the construction and licensing processes
- How the US nuclear industry is working to overcome supply chain challenges including replacing medium enriched uranium with plutonium
- Table salt’s important role in recycling spent fuels
- The economics of fuel storage
- A deep dive into fuel and reactor lifetimes
- The plant Ed envisions including its total power output and the regulatory and financial hurdles involved
In this episode we discuss...
- Jarret’s background in journalism and his personal path in the nuclear industry
- How writing about nuclear has evolved over the last few decades
- Key policy measures that helped to define the nuclear industry
- Different nuclear content audiences and stakeholders and their unique communication needs
- Challenges of writing about nuclear at a private entity
- Importance of portfolio strategies and diversification of energy sources
- Challenges of non-standard measurements when writing about fuel cycles
- Driving new communication strategies within the nuclear industry
- A deep dive into media tactics in nuclear industry communications
- Balancing decreasing trends in energy consumption with drive for industry growth
- IAEA and international nuclear audience communication needs
In this episode we discuss...
- Seth Grae’s background in law and personal journey in the nuclear industry
- The origin of LightBridge and its consultative history
- Proliferation risk in traditional light water reactors
- Safeguarding against weaponization of nuclear fuel byproducts
- Fukushima and its impact on the nuclear industry
- Challenges that are driving the future focus of LightBridge
- A deep dive into the design process at LightBridge
- LightBridge’s joint venture with Framatome
- Next steps for commercialization of LightBridge’s new fuel technology
- The importance of new fuel sources for the future
In this episode we discuss...
- Thomas’ personal journey from his position as United States House Committee on Banking and Currency to Ambassador of the US Arms Control and Disarmament Agency
- Thomas’ role in the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons
- The history of Thomas’ company Thorium Power (now Lightbridge) and the work he did with Russian nuclear scientists to improve the fuel cycle
- How nuclear energy actually played a vital role in halting the spread of nuclear weaponry
- Thomas’ work advocating nuclear and his book Seeing the Light
- The minimal human health hazards of nuclear compared to those of other energy sources - especially coal
- Nuclear’s many environmental benefits including the prevention of climate change
In this episode we discuss...
- David’s work as Director for the U.S. Department of Energy innovation hub, Consortium for Advanced Simulation of Light Water Reactors
- Core design and refiguration of fuel between cycles
- Influence of temperature on water density and its effect on the reactor
- Inherent safety of light water reactors
- PWR and BWR reactors
- Independent analysis of reactor core design and fuel optimization
- Global trends and interactions in the nuclear field
- Focus of CASTLE, energy innovation hub at NC State
- CRUD-induced power shift and CRUD-induced localized corrosion
- Pellet clad interaction
- Thermohydraulics, dry spots, and departure of nucleate boiling
- The Future of CASTLE and its contributions to the nuclear industry
In this episode we discuss...
- Lou’s background in fusion and personal journey in the nuclear space
- Lou’s work as the national technical director for molten salt reactors
- Stellarator versus tokamak plasmas
- The important roles of neutral beams and pellets
- Challenges in nuclear fission
- Uses of hydro reactors in scientific testing
- A deep dive into Project Prometheus and space power initiatives
- The resurgence of interest in molten salt reactors
- The Advanced Reactor Technology program within the U.S. Department of Energy
- Common challenges among developers and ways in which we can overcome them
- Interactions of fission products with salt
- Designing for contingency versus replacement
In this episode we discuss...
- Kurt’s background in microelectronics and early interest in nuclear energy
- Kurt’s work as a nuclear fuel materials expert at Oak Ridge
- The importance of modeling in establishing predictive practices
- The value and role of national labs in driving big innovation within the industry
- The Transformational Challenge Reactor Program
- Stagnancy within the nuclear industry and ways in which we can overcome it
- Whether or not advanced manufacturing will have a true impact on nuclear economics
- SMRs and how they can benefit nuclear economics
- Challenges of proving safety within the NRC regulations and guidelines
- Pushing the boundaries of new materials within the nuclear industry
In this episode we discuss...
- Phil's background in nuclear engineering and personal journey in the nuclear field
- A deep dive into spallation and how it occurs
- The Spallation Neutron Source
- The process of conceptualization to commissioning for SPN
- The evolution of the fusion industry over the last 40 years
- Requirements and inherent challenges in achieving fusion
- Different types of pellets and their uses
- Strategies for mitigating damage to the wall of the fusion reactor vessel
- The ITER Home Fusion Experiment
- Challenges in developing fusion across both national science approaches and private fusion companies
In this episode we discuss...
- Alan’s background in the Navy and personal journey in the nuclear space
- The role and history of ORNL in the Manhattan Project and across the broader nuclear field
- Information that can be shared from Navy nuclear experiences to the private sector
- Characteristics of plutonium 238 and reasons for use
- The evolution of radioactive waste disposal
- Alan’s work as Associate Laboratory Director at ORNL
- Creating and implementing a long-term strategic plan for ORNL
- Development of radio isotopes in other industries, like actinium 225 for targeted alpha therapy in cancer treatment
- Development and production of californium 222
- A deep dive into the Transformational Challenge Reactor Project
- Learnings and innovation from accelerated deployment and advanced manufacturing techniques
In this episode we discuss...
- Larry’s background in the Navy and personal journey in the nuclear space
- Differences between reactors on Navy submarines versus private sector
- Thermal fatigue monitoring program use in determining maximum cycles
- Different roles and responsibilities across plant operations
- The role of quality assurance within a nuclear plant and the responsibilities entailed
- Differences in QA between nuclear and other energy fields
- Safety features implemented at Calvert Cliffs
- Emergency preparedness levels, procedures, and simulations
- Environmental stewardship and the benefits of nuclear to climate
- A deep dive into inspections and licensing for nuclear plants
In this episode we discuss...
- Divittore’s background growing up near and working at Three Mile Island
- Dean’s work as Radiation Protection Manager at Exelon
- Radiation exposure levels of nuclear power plant workers
- ALARA versus linear thresholds for radiation exposure
- What is a Geiger counter and how is radiation measured?
- Areas of a power plant that have radioactive activity
- What are the sources of radiation shielding and how do they work?
- A deep dive into fuel defects
- Hot spots and how they form in a controlled environment
- Flushing and hydrolazing
- Use of robotics, cameras, drones, and VR in identifying leaks
- The planned shutdown of Three Mile Island in 2019
In this episode we discuss...
- Trace’s background in nuclear engineering at Penn State and his personal journey in the nuclear field
- Trace’s work and responsibilities as a reactor engineer at Calvert Cliffs
- Exelon’s mentorship and training program
- The processes behind planning and simulating for power maneuvers
- Spin fuel storage and the processes for managing it
- A deep dive into start-up testing and its purposes
- Updated Final Safety Analysis Report (UFSAR)
- Maintaining cooling during fuel changes
- The Special Nuclear Material Custodian role
- Improving disposal of nuclear waste materials
In this episode we discuss...
- Nicholas’ background in computer science and his introduction to nuclear through the Navy
- Nicholas’ work as a reactor engineer at Calvert Cliffs
- An electrician’s responsibilities on a Navy submarine
- Variables and strategies for planning where fuel is deployed and how often
- The Exelon-Constellation merger
- Power maneuvers and what prompts them
- A deep dive into peaking factors
- Additions and dilutions of boron for ongoing reactor maintenance
- The role and focus of PWR
- Nuclear advocacy in the community and improving public awareness and perception
In this episode we discuss...
- Dougherty’s background and what led him to the nuclear field
- A deep dive into the process of taking a submarine reactor critical for the first time
- Primary, secondary, and electrical subsystems
- Reactor coolant systems and the role of the relief valve
- Part 21 process to alert others of a defect or issue with a particular part in a production batch
- Environmental harmony of nuclear compared to fossil fuel production
- System future-proofing and general practices of preventive maintenance during outages
- Shift handoffs and operational flow of activity at a nuclear site
- How operational rigor of nuclear industry is being used to set best practices in other industries
- The importance of cross-functional input in making operational decision
In this episode we discuss...
- Mark’s background and family history in the nuclear field
- Mark’s work as Site Vice President at Calvert Cliffs
- The origin and evolution of PRA (Probabilistic Risk Assessment)
- Differences between two-loop combustion reactors and two-loop Westinghouse reactors
- Commonalities in auxiliary systems between pressurized water and boiling water reactors
- Common challenges that occur in everyday plant operations
- Advantages and considerations around building power plants near natural water sources
- Fostering a culture of open dialogue and inclusion within the plant
- Strategies for lengthening time between outages and shortening overall outage time
- Regulation and deregulation within the nuclear industry
- Improving cost efficiency of nuclear power
In this episode we discuss...
- Bret’s background in robotics and his first company Airphrame, an unmanned aerial imaging service
- Bret’s interest in climate and energy and how he came to enter the nuclear industry
- Stewart Brand’s Whole Earth Discipline
- Dwight Eisenhower’s important role in setting the tone for nuclear energy
- Titans of Nuclear and Bret’s mission to positively shape public perception surrounding nuclear technology
- A behind the scenes look at Titans of Nuclear and the experts Bret interviews
- How nuclear politics, economics, and perspectives vary around the world
- The International Atomic Energy Agency and its role in guiding prospective nuclear countries
- Nuclear’s incredible energy density and lack of emissions compared to other energy sources
- Ways we can make nuclear more accessible and how Bret works to do that with Titans of Nuclear
- The benefits of healthy competition in the nuclear world
- The future of Titans of Nuclear and how Bret aims to help the nuclear industry through the podcast and other entrepreneurial avenues
In this episode we discuss...
- Gary’s background in mechanical engineering and personal journey through the nuclear field
- Gary’s work as president and CEO at Areva and his leadership approach and vision for Framatome
- Framatome’s legacy of innovation and its commitment to future technology
- Framatome’s partnership with LightBridge
- Challenges and opportunities within digital INC innovation
- Economics of maintaining and extending life of existing nuclear plants
- Innovation in fuel technology, maintenance tools, and new reactor technology
- Educating policymakers on advantages of nuclear
- China’s trajectory in the nuclear space
- The global importance of nuclear energy and Framatome’s role in securing future nuclear success
In this episode we discuss...
- Curtis’ education at VMI and personal journey through the nuclear industry
- What is a steam cut?
- Challenges of repairs in boronated water and other environments unique to nuclear plant machinery
- Probabilistic Risk Assessment (PRA), Ultrasonic Inspection (UT), and process for repair and replacement of nuclear components
- Periodic scheduling of inspections for maintenance
- Moving from need-based to predictive maintenance
- Peening and other techniques for stress relief
- Economic challenges of building new plants
- Upgrades and improvements provided during component replacement
- Extending coping time for the next generation of innovation
In this episode we discuss...
- Craig’s background in robotics and shock peening
- Cycle of production, refueling, and mechanical maintenance at nuclear plants
- Use of inspection probes and robotics in steam generator maintenance
- Trends in maintenance innovation over last few decades
- Causes of component degradation and solutions to limit/reduce
- Division of responsibilities and unique challenges in managing outages/refueling cycles
- Remaining challenges in plant maintenance to be addressed with new technology
- Innovation in plant maintenance dissemination throughout the industry
- Technologies on the horizon like high-pressure cavitation peening
- Dealing with inspection, regeneration, and replacement of aging plant materials
In this episode we discuss...
- Bob’s personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Bob’s work in Nuclear Fuel Commercial Operations at Framatome
- Different types of nuclear fuel design
- Switching out fuel type as a means of reducing enrichment
- Ways in which fuel is designed for the commercial sector
- Processes and procedures within a full-scale fuel fabrication facility
- Who are the commercial sector buyers of nuclear fuel?
- What types of new fuels are currently being developed and what needs prompted their conception?
- What do typical nuclear fuel contracts look like and how do they differ from other industries?
- Influence of cladding and temperature on the MHz limit
- A deep dive into the process behind getting new fuel approved
In this episode we discuss...
- Kam’s background in engineering and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- A behind the scenes look at how Kam started X-Energy
- Kam’s work at X-Energy developing Generation IV high-temperature gas-cooled nuclear reactor and fuel designs
- Nuclear challenges and how Kam works to overcome them with methods including fixed cost and fixed timeline
- Flaws with the application system and its steep cost for nuclear companies
- Kam’s vision for the nuclear deployment schedule
- The environmental and human benefits of nuclear energy including supplying clean water through desalination and other treatment
In this episode we discuss...
- Ron’s background growing up in Israel and entering the nuclear field via the study of medicine
- Ron’s work as Director of Business Development at General Atomic
- IAEA demonstration of desalination process at Kazakhstan plant
- Different techniques for desalination
- Armenian nuclear history and safety concerns
- Role of technical advisors and detailees across National Security Council and U.S. government committees.
- Nuclear waste management and disposal
- VSMRs / Micro Reactors and other niche nuclear products and solutions
- Impact of silicone carbide for cladding
- A deep dive into the EMC2 project
- Innovation projects within General Atomics
- General Atomic’s contributions as a government defense contractor
In this episode we discuss...
- Joyce’s unique journey from study of poetry to international relations to the nuclear field
- Joyce’s international experiences in the Peace Corps in Turkmenistan and later experiences in Kazakhstan in post Cold War era
- The history of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency
- The shutdown of the BN-350 fast breeder reactor in Kazakhstan
- Joyce’s involvement in the 123 Agreements under the Bush administration
- Joyce’s work as a detailee to the National Security Advisor
- A deep dive into the IAEA’s Additional Protocol Agreement
- The international impact of Fukushima
- Joyce’s experience serving as the first Director of Nuclear Energy Policy within the Office of International Economics
- Joyce’s appointment as Chairman on the Defense Nuclear Facilities Safety Board
- A look at the future of nuclear and the importance of improving public awareness
In this episode we discuss...
- Umair’s background in journalism and biochemistry and his personal journey in the nuclear space
- How Umair came to work for Vox and the reporting he does there on topics including climate and energy
- A deep dive into Vox and its mission to provide explanatory journalism
- The politics of nuclear energy
- Nuclear experts Umair interviews and how he navigates their bias and vested interests
- Improving climate change’s presence in the media and thus public perception
- Umair’s mission to broaden the general public’s knowledge on nuclear and its opportunities
In this episode we discuss...
- Paul’s background in human rights and environmental activism and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- The Peaceful Atoms and how it sparked Paul’s concerns surrounding nuclear technology
- The advent of renewables including wind and solar and how the sector has evolved
- Paul’s worries regarding the connection between uranium enrichment and weapons
- The practicality of molten salt reactors
- Flaws Paul sees in nuclear’s waste management cycle
- The dangers of spent fuel on human health including the carcinogenic effects of radiation
- Three Mile Island and the conflicting studies surrounding its consequences on human health
- Bret and Paul discuss whether or not nuclear poses the fewest risks to the environment and human health compared to other energy sources
In this episode we discuss...
- Bob’s background in mechanical engineering and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- The history of MPR and Bob’s role as Principal Officer
- MPR’s work with power plants across the US and its critical role in US nuclear
- Solutions for intergranular stress corrosion cracking in boiling water reactors
- How Bob copes with the stress that comes with working in nuclear
- The American Nuclear Society and Bob’s mission to increase its ranks as well as interest in younger generations
- Why Bob believes nuclear is the most sustainable energy source and what it’s going to take to make it cost efficient and deployable across the world
In this episode we discuss...
- Jeff’s background in environmental law and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Challenges Jeff worked to overcome at the NRC including the issue of nuclear safety culture
- Jeff’s work in business development for the Shaw Group
- Advanced reactor technology including the molten salt reactor
- Jeff’s work as an outside advisor to several groups including X-Energy which developed the Pebble-Bed High Temperature Gas-cooled Reactor
- The benefits of competition within the global nuclear industry
- Why it’s crucial that the nuclear industry improve its communications strategies and thus public perception of the industry
In this episode we discuss...
- Andrew’s personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Andrew’s book After Fukushima
- How nuclear’s adaptation or lack thereof has shaped our physical, social, and environmental history
- How Chernobyl and Fukushima shifted nuclear public relations
- How different countries view purchasing reactors versus homebuilt reactors
- Why nuclear is ultimately safer than every other energy source particularly coal
- The economics of nuclear waste and repositories including Yucca Mountain
- The Linear No-Threshold Theory of Radiation
- Why Andrew supports 1990s reactor designs over new designs
In this episode we discuss...
- Margaret’s background in nuclear engineering and her personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Margaret’s work with boiling water reactors at GE
- The processes within phase changes in nuclear reactors
- The physics of bubbles in boiling water reactors and how it allows greater fuel production, lower enrichment, and reduced cost
- Tritium and the fears associated with it
- International considerations surrounding fuel and a history of the global nuclear sector
- How nuclear designs vary across the world - especially in the US, Europe, and Korea
- The benefits of government involvement in nuclear
- US regulations including the IAEA’s three phases necessary to build a nuclear power plant
- The pitfalls of natural gas and other renewables and how they impede the nuclear industry
- Nuclear’s environmental benefits surrounding climate change and why it’s important that the US work to set a precedent for the entire world
In this episode we discuss...
- Milton’s background in nuclear engineering and his personal journey in the industry
- Improving nuclear’s ability to stay on time and on budget
- Milton’s work understanding and minimizing operation risks
- The history of Canada’s nuclear industry
- Milton’s work as an independent consultant assisting with refurbishment projects in Canada including the Bruce Power refurbishment implementation agreement
- Challenges with refurbishment processes and how Milton helped to overcome them
- The World Nuclear University
- Milton’s role in the Canadian small modular reactor sector
- Natural Resources Canada’s initiative to create an SMR roadmap
In this episode we discuss...
- Anurag’s background in mechanical engineering and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- The many changing processes that go into building a nuclear plant
- The financial risk profile of a nuclear plant versus that of other energy sources
- The government’s role in funding nuclear
- How nuclear plants benefit Canada and its employment rate
- KPMG’s work improving nuclear’s ability to stay on time and on budget and how that benefits public perception of the nuclear industry
- How small modular reactors can streamline production, decrease cost, and increase nuclear scalability
In this episode we discuss...
- Amy’s background in journalism and her personal journey in the nuclear industry reporting on energy from the Wall Street Journal to Axios
- How energy plays a role in economics and politics including the natural gas boom during the Obama era
- The evolution of energy in the media and its impact on public perception
- The pendulum swing of US energy regulations
- Nuclear’s environmental benefits and the ways in which it can aid our carbon solution and work against climate change
- Amy’s view of trends in electricity grids, coal, oil and natural gas, and nuclear
- The importance of the US’s leadership role in guiding the global nuclear sector
In this episode we discuss...
- Tina’s background in chemical engineering and her personal evolution in the nuclear industry
- Tina’s early work at Northeast Utilities helping to manage the start up of Millstone 3
- The chemical processes involved in a steam generator
- B&W Nuclear Technologies aka Framatome
- Different reactor types and their chemical components
- Comparing the overall environmental impact and health risk across different energy sources including nuclear
- Risk-based versus prescriptive approaches to licensing new designs in the US
- Key drivers of research in plant modernization including technology to automatically monitor chemistry
- Ways we can improve the economics of nuclear safety
In this episode we discuss...
- Al’s background in material science and his personal journey in the nuclear industry from the NRC to EPRI
- Ways in which the NRC regulates civilian use of nuclear materials and its role at Yucca Mountain
- A deep dive into pitting and dry cask storage
- Various material degradation methods including crevice corrosion
- The safety and economic benefits of dry storage
- EPRI’s research improving fuel rod coating to slow down oxidation and prolong fuel cycle within a pressurized water reactor
- Ways in which EPRI is working to accelerate the deployment of these concepts
- Test reactors and how they’re working to expedite material qualifications
In this episode we discuss...
- Andrew’s background in physics and optics and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- An understanding of the metal wastes like uranium in weapons facilities and their effect on the environment
- How uranium becomes radon
- Chernobyl and how the facility was salvaged after the accident
- A deep dive into accident tolerant fuels
- The neutronics of silicon carbide versus zirconium
- Improving nuclear safety and cost efficiency
- Energy parks and their potential role in nuclear success
- EPRI’s recent study on factors that control nuclear destiny including economics and policy
In this episode we discuss...
- Dave’s background in welding and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- The advantages of welding versus a flange
- The history of ultrasonic inspection welds
- Fatigue and creep in fossil plants
- How data collected from materials testing in fossil plants now contributes to the nuclear industry
- Temperatures required in coal plants versus those required in nuclear plants
- The use of 3D printing in additive manufacturing on an industrial scale
- Improving the time and cost of producing small modular reactors and Gen IV reactors
- Manufacturing’s vital role in increasing nuclear’s scalability
In this episode we discuss...
- Rob’s background in history and his personal evolution in the nuclear industry
- Design flaws that led to the Three Mile Island accident
- Rob’s work in plant modernization managing major electrical and digital upgrades at plants in the US
- Pros and cons of analog systems versus digital systems
- The core inputs essential to safety control in a plant including coolant flow and temperature parameters
- Economic challenges in nuclear and how we can replace manual labor with automation to help overcome those challenges
- Concerns over software common cause failure
- Lessons we can learn from upgrade deficiencies in other countries
- How cybersecurity is maintained in digital systems
- How plant modernization methods are working to dramatically reduce the operation and maintenance costs required in nuclear
In this episode we discuss...
- Dan’s background in chemical engineering and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Dan’s work studying lanthanides and actinides
- The different types of research and development an independent nonprofit organization like EPRI provides to utilities
- The contributing factors within primary and secondary coolants and how they alter the chemistry of oxides on materials
- Where plants get their water and the purification processes involved
- How water’s chemistry changes over the lifetime of a reactor why that led to the introduction of alloy 690 in steam generators
- Boric acid’s critical role in maintaining power level in a reactor
- Automation in the water chemistry analysis space
- Dan’s current work providing the data necessary to qualify switching from lithium 7 to potassium hydroxide
In this episode we discuss...
- Neil’s background in the British Navy and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Neil’s work as a system engineer at Sizewell
- The Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO) and its work to increase a power plant’s capacity factor and uptime
- Understanding a plant’s realtime risk profile
- EPRI’s relationship with the nuclear industry and where it gets its funding
- EPRI’s research surrounding operations and maintenance cost as well as capital cost
- EPRI’s long term work supporting small modular reactors
- Gen IV reactors and what we need to do now to support their implementation in the coming decades
In this episode we discuss...
- Eric’s personal evolution in the nuclear industry and his entrepreneurial endeavors including General Compression
- Eric’s work as one of the world’s leading climate change analysts and advisors
- A deep dive into natural gas cavern storage
- How a combination of cheap gas and lack of demand for electricity nearly eliminated the wind development industry
- Why compressed air storage and wind energy can’t solve the global carbon emission problem
- System constraints Eric established while determining how to bring carbon-free electricity to the entire world and how advanced nuclear fits within those constraints
- Commercialization development and deployment challenges with advanced reactors and how we can overcome them
- The Nuclear Cost Driver Study
- Ways in which we can reduce the cost and time required in the construction process to increase nuclear’s scalability
In this episode we discuss...
- Gene’s background in nuclear engineering and personal journey in the nuclear industry
- The history of nuclear in the US including the aftermath of the Three Mile Island accident
- Plant designs including Westinghouse’s AP1000 and GE’s ESBWR
- The importance of documenting assumptions and managing margins when it comes to nuclear design and performance
- The role of redundancy in safety function
- Economic challenges that impeded the nuclear renaissance
- The environmental benefits of nuclear including its lack of pollutants such as SO2 and nitrous oxide
- Why the market doesn’t yet recognize those benefits and how today’s oversupply of gas slows down the push for nuclear energy
- Challenges we must overcome to reach a worldwide consensus on the necessity of nuclear
In this episode we discuss...
- Richard’s background in physics and engineering and his personal journey in the nuclear industry
- Richard’s work at Los Alamos creating codes to calculate ways in which neutrons interact with devices including nuclear and fusion reactors
- Different groups in which neutrons are categorized depending on their energy range and cross section
- A deep dive into the Fast Breeder Reactor Program sponsored by the Department of Energy
- Richard’s work in various departments at the NRC including the Office of Nuclear Reactor Regulation
- The highly precise processes within frontline safety systems
- How the NRC interacts with developers to bring forth new technologies including the AP600
- Risk informed nuclear oversight and the probabilities it takes into consideration
- Accident circumstance design deficiencies the NRC has worked to resolve throughout its history
- Richard’s recent work with AdSTM providing consulting and training to regulatory bodies including the NRC
In this episode we discuss...
- Kemal’s background in thermodynamics and personal evolution in the nuclear industry from Los Alamos to Idaho National Labs
- A deep dive into the Loss of Coolant Accident Scenario
- Complete loss of coolant versus partial loss of coolant and the aftermath of both
- Kemal’s research in nuclear fuels and especially light water reactor fuels
- Kemal’s thoughts on the relationship between the US government and nuclear industry and ways to overcome its flaws
- Idaho National Lab’s GAIN (Gateway for Accelerated Innovation in Nuclear)
- Kemal’s focused role on a new test reactor and its significance in research and development in nuclear technology
- Building support for nuclear in US Congress
- A behind the scenes look at designing a versatile reactor
In this episode we discuss...
- David’s personal journey through the nuclear industry from executive vice president of NAC International to president of the US Nuclear Industry Council
- The history of energy in the US including the Advanced Reactor Program and why it went under
- Why closing the back end of the fuel cycle is important to worldwide trade in the nuclear sector
- The origins of the US Nuclear Industry Council and its start as a backend focus group
- A deep dive into Yucca Mountain’s past, present, and future
- The Nuclear Industry Council’s two main focuses of advanced technology and supply chain and the significance of each
- International competition in the nuclear industry and the US’s edge in human capital
- Financing challenges in the US and how we can overcome them
- David’s outlook on the US nuclear industry including potential non-light water reactor startups microreactors at the Department of Defense complex
In this episode we discuss...
- Paul’s personal evolution in the nuclear industry working at Capehurst, Berkeley, and now at the NNL ---
- A deep dive into nuclear fusion technology ---
- Japan’s reprocessing technology efforts ---
- Paul’s work at the NNL and how he gained the position of CEO ---
- The inner dynamics of a government and contractor-operated national lab model ---
- Political, financial, and technological challenges the industry must overcome to secure nuclear as our primary energy source ---
- Improving communications strategies surrounding nuclear safety to increase trust and public discourse ---
- How building more can work to increase confidence, decrease risk, and thus reduce cost
In this episode we discuss...
- Ian’s background in biology and personal evolution through the nuclear industry ---
- Economic challenges within the industry ---
- A deep dive into molten salt fuel and its chemical makeup including uranium chloride ---
- The efficiency of uranium oxide versus uranium metal ---
- Why heat can be stored at a large scale while electricity cannot ---
- Why molten salt reactors are safer and thus cheaper when it comes to materials and construction ---
- The life cycle of molten salt reactors ---
- Why fast reactors aren’t sustainable ---
- How testing in a non-radioactive environment speeds up the time to fuel qualification ---
- The pros and cons of different nuclear regulators ---
- Challenges with funding between the government and investors ---
- Ian’s positive outlook on nuclear’s future and solving its two key problems of cost and energy storage
In this episode we discuss...
- Alastair’s personal evolution in the nuclear industry from working with the first Magnox reactor to his position as president at the European Nuclear Society ---
- A deep dive into the fuel loading process and human factory challenges it poses ---
- Light water reactors versus gas reactors ---
- The processes that go into synchronizing turbines to the grid ---
- The fine-tuned chain reactions necessary to generate steam ---
- Alastair’s work at the ENS advocating for nuclear and the politics involved ---
- Improving communications strategies surrounding nuclear safety ---
- Alastair’s positive outlook on nuclear and its progress towards becoming renewable
In this episode we discuss...
- Andrew’s personal evolution in the nuclear and submarine industries ---
- US naval reactors and the features Andrew helped design ---
- Information sharing and collaboration between the US and the UK in the nuclear space ---
- Andrew’s work for Rolls-Royce’s civil nuclear business developing manufacturing techniques ---
- The history of the AMRC and all that it contributes to the nuclear space including manufacturing innovation ---
- Applying the best shipbuilding practices to modular-building ---
- Cryogenic CO2 machining ---
- How the nuclear industry can benefit employment rates ---
- How we can make new nuclear builds more cost effective ---
- The AMRC’s supply chain development program
In this episode we discuss...
- Kirsty’s interest in the environment and how it led her into the nuclear industry ---
- A breakdown of climate change’s various current and potential consequences ---
- The science of persuasion in educating the general public on climate change ---
- Sir David MacKay’s book Sustainable Energy Without the Hot Air and how it shaped Kirsty’s view of nuclear ---
- Why renewables aren’t good enough alone as a sustainable energy option ---
- Kirsty’s communication strategies to help increase public discourse on nuclear among the public and especially among environmentalists ---
- The UK’s communications response to Fukushima and the lessons learned about nuclear safety protocols ---
- Kirsty’s work at Energy for Humanity to help make nuclear more cost effective, scalable, and viable as a sustainable energy source
In this episode we discuss...
- How Sue earned her title of “Dame” ---
- Sue’s background in material science and personal evolution in the nuclear industry ---
- A deep dive into the UK’s Magnox fuel elements ---
- The history of nuclear in the UK including its advanced gas coal reactors and its high temperature reactor “Dragon” ---
- The defamation characteristics and manufacturing routes of reactor clads and challenges Sue worked to resolve ---
- Dry processes versus wet chemical processes ---
- The economics and life cycles of waste and decommissioning in nuclear versus other industries ---
- Modularity and its construction costs ---
- Sue’s current work at BNFL engaging vendors with constructors
In this episode we discuss...
- Jay’s personal evolution from manufacturing to business within the nuclear industry ---
- A deep dive into neutrology ---
- Disruptive nuclear techniques and their purpose ---
- How the AMRC is working to make welding more cost and time efficient with electron beam welding ---
- The AMRC’s disciplines including subtractive and additive techniques as well as the science of measurement ---
- Disciplines the AMRC is looking to expand to including modular manufacturing and equipment qualification ---
- The AMRC’s shop floor and the work that goes on there ---
- The AMRC’s collaboration with the US on a nuclear naval fleet ---
- The relationship between manufacturing innovation and supply chain development ---
- Challenges Jay believes we must overcome for nuclear to be truly successful including building a power plant to cost and schedule
In this episode we discuss
- Charles' personal evolution in the nuclear industry ---
- Opinion on the Yucca Mountain nuclear waste repository in his home state of Nevada ---
- Forging and its role in nuclear ---
- Charles’ work in quality assurance in the forging industry ---
- A deep dive into two-phase heat transfer and its processes --- Human factory challenges and ways the AMRC is working to overcome them ---
- The ins and outs of steam generators ---
- Techniques the AMRC is working on to increase welding efficiency ---
- Single platform manufacturing and how it’s improving nuclear cost and time efficiency
In this episode we discuss...
- Bill’s personal evolution in the nuclear industry, including his work at USNRC and General Director of the NEA ---
- A history of the NEA and OECD ---
- Bill’s work developing technology programs within the US Department of Energy, including the advanced light water reactor and programs encouraging college students to study nuclear engineering ---
- The Nuclear Energy Research Advisory Committee and its Nuclear Energy Research Initiative ---
- How Bill helped prevent nuclear engineering programs from collapsing in universities across the US with investments from Congress ---
- The Generation for International Forum and its work promoting nuclear ---
- How Japan has responded to reinforcing its nuclear infrastructure against earthquakes after Fukushima ---
- A deep dive into the Nuclear Innovation 2050 initiative and its work to expedite the nuclear cycle ---
- What’s in store for the future
In this episode we discuss...
- Milko’s personal evolution in the nuclear industry and his work at the International Atomic Energy Agency ---
- Light water reactors versus pressurized water reactors ---
- Chernobyl and the design deficiencies that had to be addressed following the accident ---
- Long term systems for radioactive waste and spent fuel management ---
- Steps to guiding countries towards becoming nuclear ---
- A look at the processes and timelines involved in becoming a nuclear country ---
- The future of small modular reactors ---
- Challenges the world may have to overcome with the surge of interest in nuclear energy
In this episode we discuss...
- David’s background in industrial engineering and work at the Idaho National Laboratory ---
- David’s current and future work at IAEA ---
- A deep dive into different radioactive wastes and the regulations surrounding their management and disposal ---
- Carbon capture and sequestration ---
- How our agricultural practices (particularly soil conservation) affects climate change ---
- Gen 4 reactors and their advanced fuel cycles ---
- The economics of a closed fuel cycle versus an open fuel cycle --
- Different recycling schemes including MOX fuel with recycled plutonium ---
- Technical solutions to integrate nuclear with renewable energy systems ---
- The correlation between poverty and energy poverty and ways in which solving the latter can solve the former ---
In this episode we discuss...
- Malcolm’s background in psychology ---
- Malcolm’s work in public perception and nuclear politics at the Atomic Energy Authority and beyond ---
- A summary of Malcolm’s books including Civil Nuclear Energy and Double or Quits: The Future of Civil Nuclear Energy ---
- A look at the relationship between the public, scientific-technical sphere, and political spheres ---
- The political and psychological aftermath of Fukushima ---
- Why the general public is afraid of nuclear despite it being the safest energy source ---
- Ways in which the nuclear industry can improve its communications strategy to dispel fear ---
- The lethal pitfalls of regulations surrounding radiological protection ---
- Why “nuclear going wrong is better than coal going right” ---
In this episode we discuss...
- Bernard’s personal path through various nuclear institutions including his position as Vice Chairman of the Supervisory Board at Areva
- A history of the nuclear industry and France’s many contributions
- A deep dive into fusion energy and the processes involved
- Energy’s fundamental role in the world’s social and economic development
- The ins and outs of ITER’s research surrounding nuclear fusion and plasma physics
- And where Bernard sees the future of nuclear
In this episode we discuss...
- Valerie’s diverse educational background and how it applies to her job today
- Her personal evolution through the nuclear field
- The French Nuclear Society’s research surrounding nuclear and the environment including safety and waste, climate, air pollution, biodiversity, and the use of worldwide resources
- The unique, symbiotic relationship between the French government and the French Nuclear Society and how more countries can adopt a similar dynamic
- Valerie’s positive outlook on the future of nuclear and human progress
In this episode, we discuss...
- Fiona’s background and her personal evolution in the nuclear field
- A deep dive into Boron Neutron Capture Therapy and how it works to treat cancerous tumors
- A breakdown of NNL and its role in the nuclear field
- Fiona’s outlook on nuclear’s development cycle and whether or not it can be expedited
- District heating and why applying nuclear to heat can increase cost efficiency
- The steps Fiona believes necessary to nuclear’s success as a sustainable energy source
In this episode, we discuss...
-
His personal path through various nuclear institutions including Argonne and his current efforts at Nuclear-21
-
Nuclear sustainability and the pros and cons of different ways to handle spent fuel
-
Hurdles including challenges with qualification and supply and market that nuclear must leap to become truly accepted as a sustainable energy option
-
And where Luc sees the future of nuclear
In this episode, we discuss...
- A deep dive into the economics of nuclear power.
- The evolution of the uranium enrichment industry and the processes involved.
- Causes behind significant fluctuations in the value of uranium throughout history.
- The enrichment capabilities of different countries.
- Separative work units and how they apply to enrichment processes.
- The necessity for negative bidding in the nuclear industry.
- A look at Nikola Tesla and Thomas Edison’s respective impacts on the electric and nuclear industries.
- An explanation for the multiple definitions of SMR (Small Modular Reactors).
- The grave pitfalls of market-driven approaches to energy and their impact on climate.
- Historical symptoms of climate change including the receding glaciers.
- Approaches we can adopt to decrease energy’s cost of capital.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Troels' personal evolution and how he came to start Seaborg Technologies.
- How Seaborg has advanced to become the largest technical reactor development team beyond Asia.
- Compact molten salt reactors and how they work to increase nuclear sustainability.
- Troels' optimistic outlook on the future of nuclear technology.
- The impact of nuclear energy on both global warming and global poverty.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Mathijs' inspiration and personal evolution in the nuclear field.
- A deep dive into the world-wide energy dilemma.
- The economics of natural resources and renewables.
- The flawed assumptions surrounding stability of natural resources and renewables.
- The disparity between OECD and non-OECD consumption and its potential future implications.
- Consumerism's significant role in the energy equation.
- Paradigm shifts Mathjis believes OECD countries must undergo in order to reduce their energy consumption.
- Ways in which nuclear energy can play a vital role in preventing climate change.
- Saving the world from energy poverty.
- Our dwindling carbon allowance and how it dictates the solutions available to us.
In this episode, we discuss...
- The fields of metallurgy and powder metallurgy.
- How the various fields function within the processes of shaping and forging steel.
- The molecular interactions involved in creating different types of steel.
- 3D printing and how it is used to forge materials otherwise difficult to manipulate.
- Wade's personal evolution from a student of metallurgy to VTT's Laboratory Director.
- A deep dive into the research conducted at the VTT Centre for Nuclear Safety.
- Flexible, multi-scale experimental environments for material testing.
- The future of material science and its vital role in the nuclear space.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Rauli's blog about oil's unique properties and his interest in the nuclear field.
- The concept of Peak Oil and why a dependence on oil is a problem.
- Writing "The Climate Gamble" and the three arguments incorporated into the book.
- How the distribution of literature about nuclear can clear misconceptions held by others.
- Problems in messaging from the nuclear industry over the last 40 years.
- The importance of not talking about nuclear safety culture.
- Communication theory as it relates to nuclear industry.
- Rauli's research on the applications of nuclear energy and high temperature reactors.
- Public and political discourse about nuclear energy.
- Combining heat and power and its effect on energy production.
- The negative consequences of banning coal and the importance of coming up with alternatives.
- Where to go to learn more about nuclear.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Ville's previous misperceptions about nuclear energy and how he overcame them.
- Generation 4 and how the new reactors can be more economic, more versatile, and safer.
- The Super Critical Water Reactor and the neutronics behind it.
- Fuel Behavior Analysis and what exactly it entails.
- The Halden Reactor in Norway.
- Modeling responses to pressure differentials.
- The potential applications of Small Module Reactors.
- Why the amount of electricity SMRs can bring to the grid are more flexible than the current fleet.
- A comparison of the load-following capabilities of SMRs and larger power plants.
- Ice-breaker reactors on their ships.
- The different industries that can use nuclear heat.
- Why it is necessary for the nuclear industry to advocate for the use of nuclear energy.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Atte's interest in history and his involvement in politics during University.
- Researching the socioeconomic impact of climate change.
- The history of the Finnish people and political institutions.
- The relationship between politics and climate policy.
- How approaches to solving problems and talking about politics have changed over time.
- The various political parties in Finland and their platforms.
- Working at the intersection of research and politics.
- The advantage of being able to communicate science to politicians and vise-versa.
- Perceptions of the nuclear industry in Finnish politics and society.
- How the idea of renewable energy is a problem.
- Why we are lacking incentives to act on climate change.
- What changing our priorities look like and a market-driven approach to climate change.
- The benefits and disadvantages of regulating the removal of fossil infrastructure completely.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Toni's interest in environmental protection, energy, and climate change.
- The culture in Finland.
- His involvement in the steel industry and their relationship with nuclear.
- Innovative projects surrounding heat consumption and the issue's importance in Finland.
- Energy procurement and investing in the nuclear industry.
- The impact of nuclear energy on climate change v. other forms of energy.
- Other parties involved in establishing new nuclear companies.
- What the current nuclear landscape in Finland looks like.
- Why it is important to collaborate to solve challenges.
- The level of rigor required in building a nuclear power plant.
- What we learned about light water reactor meltdowns and how we can apply these lessons to future designs.
- Milestones in the power plant project.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Michael's interest in particle physics and his work as a high energy physicist.
- The difference between antimatter and antiprotons.
- Annihilation and why the occurrence of antimatter collisions are more common than you think.
- Constituents of a normal matter atom.
- Measuring the gravitational effect between matter and antimatter.
- The Grand Unification Theory and understanding gravity.
- Why understanding high energy physics is crucial to diagnosing and treating cancer and tumors.
- How high energy physics has led to the commercialization of technology.
- The catch of using gamma therapy to treat tumors and what must be done instead.
- Using accelerators to drive the production of thermal neutrons.
- Ripping electrons off of normal atoms and how targeted annihilation can kill surrounding cells.
- Cost-drivers of the current system.
- Neutrinos and the DUNE Experiment.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Giovanni's fascination with clean energy and his experiment on neutronics.
- Instrumentation and the uniqueness of sodium reactors.
- The role of particle accelerators in cancer treatments.
- Gaseous hydrogen and ionization.
- Developing technology and the impact of its commercialization.
- How the World Wide Web was originally developed to aid scientists.
- The MEDICIS Project and its potential contributions to the field of medicine.
- Deficits of current isotopes.
- The relationship between medical imaging and high energy physics.
- How an accelerator can impact radio isotope production.
- Dating art and understanding cultural heritage through the use of particle accelerators.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Steven's introduction to nuclear through physical chemistry.
- An explanation of CERN's mission and the Large Electron Positron Collider.
- Antimatter and the Z Boson.
- Why the effective mass of particles increase as you get closer to the speed of light.
- The misconceptions of particle collisions and an explanation of their interactions.
- The benefits of partnering with others in the industry.
- Collecting data through Z factories and the families of particles and quark.
- The Theory of Super-Symmetry and the Grand Unification Theory.
- Why it's better to refer to dark matter as invisible matter and its interaction with light in space.
- The ATLAS Experiment and photographing particle collisions.
- How measuring the Higgs Boson can help give us a new window into physics.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Yves' start as a nuclear engineer at the Power Utility of France (EDF).
- How the perception of nuclear energy in France has changed over time.
- USEPR and developing the US version of a European pressurized reactor.
- How to make nuclear investment profitable in spite of low competition prices.
- The background behind and challenges of Hinkley Point C.
- The impact of the electricity market's volatility.
- Why Contract for Difference and economic modeling can help attract investors to the industry.
- The similarities and differences of the anti-nuclear movements in the US and Europe.
- FORATOM and its mission.
- Decision-making processes within the European Union and consequences of the Euratom Treat.
- The impact of Germany phasing out their nuclear power.
- What must be done to change the perception of the nuclear industry.
- What next generation technology looks like and what the future holds for the nuclear industry.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Paul's introduction to the nuclear industry as a project finance attorney for Bechtel.
- The definition and history of nuclear project financing.
- The ability and benefits of a state wanting to purchase a power plant v. a municipality.
- Issues associated with financial modeling.
- Innovative financing and financing from a lender's perspective.
- The benefits of regulation and deregulation of the market.
- Why competition in the market isn't always good.
- The disadvantages of using renewables both in construction and application.
- The economic impact of global warming and why messaging matters.
- Double standards that exist in the oil and nuclear industry.
- Why the US government and nuclear corporations need to come together and provide one voice.
- Bilateral relationships and the geopolitical nuances of the nuclear industry.
In this episode, we discuss...
- Laura's entrance into the nuclear field.
- Discovering how to reduce weapons of mass destruction through cooperation.
- The history behind and challenges of implementing the Nunn-Lugar Cooperative Threat Reduction.
- The evolution of nuclear threats and the modern approach to securing nuclear materials.
- Nuclear Threat Initiative and its impact.
- Addressing the spent fuel pool in a facility outside Belgrade.
- How the Global Threat Initiative became a launchpad for addressing proliferation challenges.
- Laura's duties and accomplishments as an ambassador for the IAEA.
- Nuclear safety and security culture.
- Why bringing nuclear energy to a country can reduce the nuclear weapons risk.
- The challenges we face today in the international nuclear community.
Episode Content:
- Ken's start with the Nuclear Arms Control Program at the Association for the Advancement of Science.
- Why it is important to make technical nuclear concepts accessible to others.
- How the theory of arms control is viewed then and now.
- The lack of institutional adaptation and why it is essential to reform it.
- The Cooperative Threat Reduction and the Nuclear Security Summit Process.
- How the nuclear nonproliferation community and nuclear energy committee united.
- The prejudice against nuclear and the issue of nuclear geopolitics.
- The consequences of a disturbed supply chain.
- Why the global security regime for nuclear power must be improved.
- Cyber-nuclear and artificial intelligence.
- The importance of maintaining the "New Iron Triangle."
Episode Content:
- Amanda's interest in chemistry and her work at a crime lab.
- A breakdown of molybdenum 99 and technetium 99m.
- Why metastable isotopes are useful for medical applications.
- What are ligins?
- From a security perspective, why it's in the US' interest to domestically produce molybdenum 99.
- The traditional and nontraditional methods of producing molybdenum 99.
- Tradeoffs of different production processes.
- The Argonne Molybdenum Research Experiment.
- Why precipitating uranium creates a hotspot.
- How corrosion can be beneficial in producing uranium peroxide precipitate.
- What's in store for the future.
Episode Content:
- Tom's introduction to the nuclear industry from a history project.
- How Chernobyl reinforced the importance of nuclear and safety.
- Why reactor physicists are crucial when designing reactors.
- Unprotected loss of flow tests and unprotected loss of heat sink tests.
- Scram Systems and their importance during a shutdown failure.
- The Generation 4 International Forum.
- Why it's important to be involved and engaged in the international community.
- The difference in start-up procedures for sodium reactors and light water reactors.
- SAS and what code means in the nuclear world.
- Economic modeling for reactors and the future of sodium technology.
Episode Content:
- Hussein's fascination with reactor physics and kinetics.
- Methods used to recover detailed information of reaction rates in the core.
- The definition of course information.
- How reducing computational uncertainty allows you to design closer to material capability.
- Time-dependent changes to chemical structures.
- How predictions and data encourage the move away from light water reactors.
- Moving from spent fuel to used fuel.
- The implications of pyro-processing.
- The Generation 4 Initiative and the future of nuclear reactors.
- How to economically analyze technology options.
- The importance of having a diverse system of commercially-pursued technology.
- Addressing the challenge of bringing new technologies to the market.
Episode Content:
- Chris' start in the Nuclear Propulsion Office Candidate Program.
- Training with the A1W Prototype in Idaho Falls.
- Technology development and sodium-cooled power plants.
- Improving the cost performance of technology.
- Advanced and vessel refueling machines.
- Sodium and its different mediums.
- The history of metal and the importance of building to increasing scale for commercialization.
- Alkaline metal technology development.
- Function of the cold trap in a sodium loop.
- The differences between a sodium system and a light water system.
- Aqueous and pyro processing technology development
- The importance of maintaining the US' technology edge and knowledge base
Episode Content:
- John's introduction to nuclear during his work with the Geological Survey.
- How radiocarbon dating actually works.
- The interdisciplinary nature of the nuclear industry.
- In what circumstances types of fuels are considered efficient.
- Energy produced with plutonium v. uranium.
- Core-reload strategies and how it can save billions in electricity production.
- Improving efficiency without compromising safety.
- The importance of economies of scale and innovation culture.
- Why studying the effect of radiation on materials is important.
- Isotope production and its different medical applications.
- Stress-test procedures and radioactive contrast.
- A discussion about high density fuel.
Episode Content:
- Spencer's start studying the history of science at the American Institute of Physics.
- Unraveling the origin of the French Nuclear Program.
- The intersection of nuclear fear and politics.
- The role of psychology in understanding public reluctance towards nuclear energy.
- The interaction between carbon dioxide and oceans; the significance of climate change.
- A discussion of the race between technology and the evolution of human morality.
- How nuclear imagery can affect our perception of nuclear energy.
- The importance of political culture in the international sphere.
- The outlook of nuclear energy, moving forward.
Episode Content:
- Ken's start doing safety analysis, including his work at Three Mile Island.
- How probabilistic risk assessment correlates to what happens at plants.
- An overview of the risk-informed regulation movement in the 90's.
- The role of vents during nuclear plant accidents.
- Nuclear maintenance, plant engineering, and risk assessment.
- The best strategies to control fission products after severe accidents.
- Severe accident analysis and international collaborations.
- Defining HEPA filters and identifying its impact.
- The roadmap to commercialization and the importance of identifying the market.
- Why research and development is crucial to form partnerships.
Episode Content:
- Chad's time as a Navy Nuke.
- What makes one reactor in a submarine more advanced than another reactor?
- Challenges faced when constructing, designing, and managing a reactor.
- The effect of Three Mile Island on the perception of nuclear and its consequences.
- Distinguishing between fast reactors and thermal reactors.
- A discussion on sealed source weapons-grade plutonium.
- An in-depth look at boiling water reactors.
- An overview of the IAEA and the evolution of light water reactors.
- How nuclear technology can reduce energy poverty.
Episode Content:
- John's start working with Fluor Corporation and his transition to NuScale.
- A discussion about the potential of NuScale's SMR in the global market.
- The necessity of forging public-private relationships.
- An overview of constraints nuclear start-ups face.
- The importance of having a sustainable supply chain.
- The impact of driving down costs on demand.
- What the next generation of reactors will look like and the future of the environmental movement.
- How economics trump politics with the SMR design.
- The benefit of youth development and cultivating passions.
- Applications of SMRs and what the world will look like in the future.
Episode Content:
- Growing up as an environmentalist and making the transition to the nuclear industry.
- The importance of humanizing nuclear technology.
- International Safeguards and Policy.
- Taking a state-level approach v. facility-level approach when it comes to safeguards.
- The community-based approach and applications of SMRs.
- How important it is to train and provide opportunities for the next generation.
- Perceptions of nuclear energy in Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and the US.
- How to best learn about nuclear if you're not already familiar with it.
Episode Content:
- Tom's start as a Shift Technical Advisor implementing transient response implementing procedures.
- Nuclear Liability law.
- The importance of educating and familiarizing others with nuclear terms.
- Factors that determine whether technology is commercially attractive.
- Tom clarifies: who buys power plants?
- The features that make the NuScale's SMR design stand out.
- Segmenting the market: what to look for in domestic and international buyers.
- Levelized cost of electricity and the significance of acknowledging it through purchase.
- Domestic v. International Competition and an in-depth look at the international market.
- Painting a picture of the nuclear world in the future.
Episode Content:
- Tom's unexpected interest in nuclear through the Naval Nuclear Propulsion Directorate.
- Reliability inspect and reliability engineering.
- An explanation of and the reasoning behind risk-informed categorization Rule 50.69.
- Tom's transition from the NRC to NuScale and the private sector.
- A detailed description of the content and tribulations of the licensing application.
- The formulation of management topics.
- The benefits of applying for and obtaining limited work authorization.
- Short-term challenges and long-term aspirations of the company.
Episode Content:
- Jose's captivation with the nuclear industry during high school and college.
- The history, description, and findings of Counter Current Flow Limitation Testing.
- An overview of Jose's time as the Department Head of Nuclear Science and Engineering.
- Passive safety systems, the Bleed and Feed Approach, and the AP 600.
- Embodying full-scale behavior into a small-scale system.
- MASLWR: The Multi-Application Small Light Water Reactor.
- The importance of simplicity in design.
- How international competition and natural gas empowered domestic unity.
- Future implications of NuScale's groundbreaking design on an international scale.
Episode Content:
- Pete's start in the weapons testing and Star Wars Program at Los Alamos National Lab.
- An in-depth look at the relationship between nuclear energy and nonproliferation.
- Pete's work with Senator Domenici to craft legislation for essential nuclear programs.
- A discussion of the Nuclear Cities and Lab to Lab Initiatives.
- Efforts Pete spearheaded at the NRC.
- The importance of mitigating Station Blackouts and implementing safety measures.
- Catalyzing a wave of innovation efforts through investment in research and development.
- Highlights about and the ingenuity of NuScale's small modular reactor design.
- Reflections upon the importance of US nuclear leadership in the global sphere.
Episode Content:
- Ron's start with General Electric working on the D-Replacement Reactor.
- How thermohydraulics are used to raise exit temperatures and prevent a boiling coolant.
- The significance of plutonium-recycle test reactors and challenges of the program.
- An explanation of the physics behind the Fast Flux Test Facility.
- The advantages of a fast reactor.
- The definition of breeding.
- Why it is important to establish mutual and meaningful international partnerships.
- Russia and its closed cities.
- A discussion on the best way to embark designing new nuclear technology.
- Present advances in the nuclear technology sector and its implications for the future.
Episode Content:
- Brady's start as a chemical engineer.
- An explanation of re-processing.
- Dry Storage: in theory and in practice.
- An in-depth look at the process and consequences of oxidizing spent fuel.
- The formation of the Nuclear Energy Research Initiative.
- A discussion about Yucca Mountain's effectiveness in disposing used fuel.
- Political obstacles that inhibit disposal solutions.
- A look at whether nuclear technology is safe and a comparison to other forms of energy.
- What's on the horizon for nuclear energy.
Episode Content:
- Tara's start as an archaeologist at Hanford Cultural Resources Laboratory.
- An explanation of the National Environmental Policy Act.
- A breakdown of environmental assessments and impact statements.
- The process of acquiring permits and the necessity of mitigating environmental impact.
- The Nuclear Renaissance and whether there is a second Renaissance emerging.
- The types of licenses and the renewal process.
- Likes, dislikes, and improvements that need to be done in the system.
- What the world will look like moving forward.
Episode Content:
- Steve's start working on Probabilistic Risk Assessment with the UK Energy Authority.
- Sizewell B and the significance of the Wash 1400 safety study.
- Risk assessment v. risk perception.
- The definition of risk and why it is important to analyze it.
- The industry's transition to utilizing a risk-informed approach in design.
- A breakdown of the categorization of nuclear facilities.
- The viability, benefits, and challenges of extracting uranium from seawater.
- PNNL's relationship with the Hanford Site.
- A discussion of reprocessing through a risk assessment perspective.
- The Golden Age of Nuclear and when it will happen.
Episode Content:
- Ed's start at the US Department of Energy doing nuclear non-proliferation security work.
- The decisions behind Dirty Bomb Threat Reduction and Global Threat Reduction Initiative.
- The US' responsibility to continue its high standard of security and safety.
- How the US can compete against Russia and China's state-financed nuclear industries.
- The Department of Energy's role in the private nuclear market.
- Why the small modular reactor will pave the way towards a new nuclear generation.
- The difficulties of maneuvering politics and Presidential Administrations.
- Short-term challenges and creating an industry-led commercialization pathway.
- What the future of the industry will look like.
Episode Content:
- Bill's introduction to the nuclear industry through a co-op program at Drexel University.
- The importance of the design of a power plant and the logistics of its constructibility.
- The Nuclear Quality Assurance Requirements and the emergence of larger plants.
- Mitigating concerns, regulatory-driven changes after the Three Mile Island Accident.
- Prudence Litigation and the financial vulnerabilities within the nuclear industry.
- An explanation of the Single-Shell Tank Clean-Up Program.
- A discussion of the United States' departure from the nuclear industry.
- The Fast-flux Test Facility shutdown and exploring how to use radio isotopes for medical applications, such as cancer therapy.
- The Global Nuclear Energy Partnership and the Traveling-Wave Reactor.
- Jim's start as an extraterrestrial scientist and coordinator of shuttle activities.
- Transition to nuclear waste as he moved to PNNL as a geology pair with his wife, Judith.
- 3 styles of decision making in science policy: ignore science, make it the basis of the decision, retroactively justify the decision with science.
- Yucca Mountain is the wrong rock, dripping wet and corrosive.
- WIPP Carlsbad, New Mexico, Permian Basin has perfect salt chemistry.
- A comparison between the future of China and the US' nuclear industries.
- Dilution as a waste mitigation strategy, discussion of Fukishima and Tritium.
- A discussion of how the media sources portrays expertise.
- A discussion of grout v. glass vitrification processes.
- Waste disposal methods, political contentions, and the power of the Constitution.
- Amy's work at the NRC's atomic safety licensing board on waste and interim storage.
- An overview of nuclear liability and explanation of the Price-Anderson act.
- Deploying technology abroad, the nuclear export control regime, 10CFR- Part 810, general & specific authorizations, 123 agreements, political considerations.
- The ability of national security to drive legal policies and decisions.
- How the "Gold Standard Provision" affects enrichment and reprocessing access.
- The implicit understanding behind "atoms for peace" initiative and the inverse correlation between energy production and weapons production.
- Addressing capital risk and the evolution of capital sources, including impact investing.
- Collaboration between nuclear developers (new and old) and climate-driven acceptance.
Episode Content:
- Josh's journey from American political history to Nuclear advocacy
- Storytelling as a tool to motivate action
- Third Way's focus areas, clean energy policies, and how they found advanced nuclear
- How climate change and natural gas changed the perception and rules of energy
- Identifying key changes such as: access to the lab & regulatory modernization
- Questioning the role of public perceptions' influence on the industry
- Across the aisle legislative efforts enabling the next generation of nuclear
- Developing a consensus around technology, market, and research needs
- De-Risking capital, technology, and regulatory risk moving into the future
Episode Content:
- Rita's start in Materials Engineering at MIT, her transition into the space research world
- Her work at Westinghouse in their fuel fabrication facility
- Scouting "Game Changing" technologies across robotics, advanced reactors, advanced chemical engineering, advanced manufacturing, digital instrumentation and control
- How her experience working between Westinghouse and the Labs helped her understand the shortcomings she needed to fix from the inside
- GAIN initiatives: Vouchers, Workshops, Facilitating industry work with the labs
- Fuel testing for advanced reactors and the need to build a domestic Fast Test Reactor
- The formation of a 30 Million dollar per year for 5 years open ended funding opportunity
- A quick discussion of the NRC modernizing their licensing framework
Episode Content:
- The ARC origen story through resurrection of a decades old nuclear prototype EBR-2
- A technical discussion on "closing the fuel cycle", "breeding", "electrochemical refining"
- The advantages of ARC from a Waste, Cost, Safety and matching market conditions
- A discussion of sodium and "pool type" vs "loop type" design
- A discussion of metallic uranium fuel vs uranium oxide
- Negative reactivity feedback characteristics enabled by neutron leakage
- Historical examples of this style reactor's inherent safety features
- A quick comparison of the four metal fuel designs ARC, PRISM, OKLO, and TERRAPOWER
- Nuclear economics and how to balance economies of scale vs diseconomies of scale
- Advantages of the Canadian Licensing Regime: 2 stages & risk-based approach
Episode Content:
- The origin story of Clearpath and politics role in the climate divide
- The "full toolkit" solution to world energy
- The "more innovation and less regulation" approach to federal policy
- An explanation of Production Tax credits and how they fit into energy markets
- "Leveling the playing field" for zero emissions standards
- How they focus on the innovation and the government's role in R&D
- Refocusing the Department of Energy's R&D efforts with moonshot initiatives
- Changing the paradigm of how we build new nuclear
- Three other research groups intensely focused on understanding construction costs
- China - and the risks of us ceding world nuclear leadership to them
- Energy's role in international political relationships
- The three things we need to move the industry forward...
Episode Content:
- Mark's background in geology and how that ties in to spent fuel disposal
- His lab career starting at Los Alamos, then Argonne, then INL
- INL's history and role in developing nuclear technology
- New technologies that help bring advanced reactors to fruition
- Specifically how INL helps facilitate the commercialize new reactor technology
- How the National Labs work with industry and role of R&D in US competitiveness
- INL's work as the "underwriter's lab" of storage technology
- How the various contributions of the national labs work as a whole system
- How competing on ideas drives science forward
- Smartgrid, cybersecurity, and design with resiliency in mind
- The importance of multidisciplinary learning and
- Mark's insight looking towards the future of technology
Episode Content:
- John's career at the Department of Energy, the National Labs, as an ANS congressional fellow, and in the private sector
- Serving on the Blue Ribbon commission for nuclear waste management
- Why deployment time is key to cost reduction
- NEI's national nuclear energy strategy: Preserve, Sustain, Innovate, and Thrive
- An explanation of "negative pricing" and the unintended consequences of tax credits
- The long term strategic advantages that come form being a global energy supplier
- Pros and Cons of various mechanisms the government can use to support the industry
- How SMRs alleviate some of the market problems nuclear faces today
- Some of the other all-stars at NEI: Maria, Dan, John, Pam, etc.
- A key tale for nuclear reactor innovators...
Episode Content:
- Jeff's earlier career as an NRC vendor inspector
- The relationship between NRC and Industry including the balance of health and safety against cost and schedule
- His work with Westinghouse bidding on an South African nuclear build and the story behind their attempted development of the pebble bed
- A description of the Pebble Bed technology advantages
- Further details on the X-energy fuel and reactor technology
- The role of Silicon Carbide in in TRISO Fuel
- An alternative safety approach to redundancy and defense in depth
- The X-energy team composition and its founder Kam Ghaffarian
- How high temperature nuclear can be used for water desalination
- Further details of X-energy's deployment strategy
- Jessica's start in Astrophysics, transition to Energy, and how she joined Breakthrough
- The various topic areas the Breakthrough Institute focuses on and its origin story
- The biggest challenge of Nuclear being cost and how to approach building differently
- A review of modular construction techniques and readiness levels
- Deployment timelines and how to make nuclear innovative
- How construction costs differ across country
- The market for exporting nuclear technologies and various factors that make it attractive
- The importance of fuel reliability, export control, and security considerations
- Canada's efforts on licensing advanced reactor technologies
- Floating Reactors, Micro Reactors, Autonomous Reactors
Episode Content:
- How Emma’s personal experiences abroad developed her interest in energy issues
- Her dual participation in both technical research and social advocacy
- How she got involved in Mothers for Nuclear and focus of Students for Nuclear
- She discusses the relationship between INL and the several local universities
- Developing a model in the nuclear fuel model simulator Cyclus
- Then we do a deep dive into Cyclus itself and Emma’s efforts to evolve this model to incorporate a hybrid energy ecosystem as well
- How she sees the role hybrid energy systems play in transforming the world
- She also shares with us an amazing perspective on what happens holistically when we make energy cheaper
Episode Content:
- The basics of fuel fabrication
- What it’s like to live in the community around and to work at a Nuclear Power plant
- A description of what happens when you reload fuel in a reactor
- His work with the Light Water Reactor sustainability program and how they design ways to extend the life of the existing fleet
- The function of the Advanced Test Reactor, the largest test reactor in the US
- The role that Small Modular Reactors play in the future of the nuclear power industry
- Nuscale’s efforts in commercializing SMR technology and
- INL’s role in hosting a demonstration version of this technology and others
Episode Content:
- Her fascinating entrance to the Nuclear field at an incredibly young age
- An overview of space nuclear reactors
- The wide variety of the different projects she’s participated in at INL
- She dives into energy availability intermittency and transmission
- Applying nuclear energy as an Industrial heat source, utilizing the steam for district heating, chemical process, water desalination, and how all this fits into broader energy ecosystem
- The many uses of hydrogen and how it can be integrated in a nuclear system
- Laboratory scale model validation of the worlds future integrated energy systems
Episode Content:
- How Hans became interested in nuclear energy
- An overview of the of pebble bed technology physics and materials
- How high temperature can be safer than low temperature
- The ups and downs of interest in the technology
- He explains need to build expertise, infrastructure, modeling and new regulations just to lay the foundation for commercializing new technologies
- Why even a 50MW pilot project is a large endeavor
- The role INL plays as an independent auditor and fuel qualifier
- He articulates the difference between pebblebed and prismatic reactors
- We wrap up with where Hans sees the future of Nuclear technology
In part 1 of 5 in our special INL series we interview John Wagner, the Associate Laboratory Director of the Nuclear Science and Technology Directorate. If you’re not familiar with the structure of the National lab hierarchy… that title is a big deal. In the first half of the episode we discuss:
- John’s entrance into the field and early experience at Oak Ridge National Labs
- His expertise on developing new methods of understanding how radiation moves through matter
- He talks us through the basics of spent fuel management and a briefer on the status of Yucca Mountain.
- And in the second half we talk through the some of the facilities at INL
- John gives us an overview of the five different divisions that fall under the Nuclear Science Directorate including: “Domestic Programs”, “Nuclear Fuels and Materials” “Fuel Cycle Technologies” “Nuclear Systems and Analysis” and “Regulatory Safety” divisions
- What role the INL plays in advising the NRC
- The three buckets of Advanced Reactor Design and INL’s history in facilitating R&D
- He talks us through the concept of transients and how INL tests them
- We touch upon a topic that’s very important to me, Energy Abundance
- And we close out with a glimpse into some of the future work INL and John’s perspective into the promise of Nuclear Energy on the whole.
In this episode we interview Rachel Slaybaugh, who, before we were introduced, on three separate occasions was recommended as a must have on this program. She’s a professor at UC Berkeley, founder of the Nuclear boot camp which we’ll discuss shortly, and newest program director at ARPA-E. Today we discuss:
- Rachel’s introduction to nuclear science and technical expertise
- The genesis of the world’s first nuclear startup accelerator
- The need to use computation thoughtfully to replace or supplement experiments
- Her recent appointment as an Arpa-E program director
and it’s focus on supporting enabling technologies such as robotics, sophisticated sensing, model-based fault detection, and secure networks
In this episode we interview Eric Loewen, a leading Nuclear Scientist whose current work involves leading General Electric’s efforts to deploy the integral fast reactor called PRISM. We discuss:
- His personal path through various nuclear institutions, work on climate change with congress, and current efforts
- GE’s role in America’s nuclear history
- A deep dive into the PRISM project and technology behind fast reactors
- We touch upon the the hormetic effect of radiation and the effects of low dose
- And where Eric sees the future of nuclear
In this episode we interview Todd Allen, one of the top U.S. experts in nuclear energy. Todd’s played a critical role in supporting the advancement of the next generation of nuclear technologies serving roles throughout our national lab system, in academia, the think-tank world and more. In this episode Todd’ reveals tremendous insights around:
- The function of our national lab system in prototyping reactors and creation of user facilities to revitalize innovation on this front
- Walking through various permutations of fuels, coolants, and approaches towards proving new technologies
- Turning points in the history of commercial nuclear development, here in the US and abroad, and the recent resurgence of nuclear excitement
- His contribution towards shaping policy at Thirdway, the clean energy think tank, and launching their first advanced nuclear summit.
- We talk about the concept of prize based incentives and how they might apply to the nuclear space
- Most importantly concrete steps how the can DOE restructure their efforts to best encourage innovation
- At the very end he also offers a nugget regarding communication strategies to the public as well
In this episode we interview Per Peterson, professor at one of UC Berkeley's Nuclear reactors groups. He’s the world expert on Fluoride Salt Cooled High Temperature reactors and a founder of Kairos Power, an Oakland, CA based nuclear startup, pursuing commercialization of that same technology. He has a lot of insight to share in this space including:
- The true cost drivers in plant construction and operations
- Civil nuclear energy from the perspective of non-proliferation
- Public misunderstandings around nuclear waste
- Theories around various safety design approaches
- Integral effects test facilities and their role in new reactor technology development
- How market failures make it challenging to develop new reactors
- Opportunities to borrow learnings from the success of the revitalization of the private space industry
In this episode we interview Michael Shellenberger who has been on the forefront of nuclear advocacy for over a decade. He’s the founder of Environmental Progress, a research and policy organization, which in addition to putting together papers on Health and Safety, technology, innovation and economics also manages grassroots campaign efforts for preserving the existing Nuclear Fleet. In this episode we discuss: * Michael Shellenberger’s personal evolution from a solar to nuclear advocacy * Common misconceptions around fukushima including the media’s role * We touch on concepts such on technocentrism, human consciousness, even question energy inevitability, * And then we review which arguments are more or less influential in readjusting the public's position
Host, Bret Kugelmass, introduces his nuclear energy themed podcast explaining his motivations around climate change.