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Canada is proposing a revolutionary concept for a small 600 kW nuclear reactor capable of operating continuously for 15 years without refueling.
The technology, developed by Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), demonstrates significant potential in combating climate change and developing innovations in energy, physics and medicine. The SLOWPOKE reactor (from the English “Safe LOW-POwer Critical Experiment” - a safe low-power critical experiment) and its derivatives are examples of modern approaches to creating compact and economical nuclear systems.
The SLOWPOKE-2 reactor, one of AECL’s most successful projects, is a low-pressure pool reactor that operates in a “physical safety” mode. This means that even in the event of equipment failure, the reactor remains stable without human intervention. For several decades, these reactors have been successfully used in Canada and other countries for scientific and educational purposes, including neutron activation analysis and neutron radiography.
AECL's new nuclear battery concept involves a microreactor capable of providing both electrical (600 kW) and thermal (up to 2400 kWh at 400°C) energy. One of the key characteristics of this battery is its ability to withstand all foreseeable emergency scenarios without external intervention. The technology is intended for autonomous use in power supply, district heating and industrial processes.
Canada’s Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Program and the Canadian Nuclear Research Initiative (CNRI) are working to commercialize AECL’s innovations. According to Lou Riccoboni, vice president of Canadian Nuclear Laboratories, these technologies have significant potential for the international market. Leveraging AECL’s intellectual property will expand their applications for district heating, isotope production and scientific research.
The successful experience of SLOWPOKE reactors paves the way for the introduction of larger and more powerful modules. Through the RFEOI (Request for Expression of Interest) program, CNL actively engages technology developers to assess market interest in new nuclear energy solutions, ensuring a secure future of energy supply and sustainable development.
