The US government is opening part of its Cold War-era plutonium stockpile to help develop next-generation nuclear reactors. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on Russian uranium and speed up the development of fast reactors that can recycle spent fuel.
Companies building small modular designs, which are safer and more flexible than conventional plants, will be invited to apply for 19 metric tons of weapons-grade plutonium. This is part of President Trump’s campaign to strengthen US energy independence and revive the domestic nuclear sector.
The lack of a domestic uranium supply has created a bottleneck for companies developing small modular reactors. Although imports from Russia are banned, domestic output remains negligible.
Startups like Oklo and Newcleo have already applied for access to the plutonium surplus. They must outline plans for recycling, processing, and manufacturing fuel derived from plutonium, as well as comprehensive safety and security protocols.
Critics warn that repurposing plutonium for commercial purposes poses serious proliferation and security risks. However, proponents argue that this could provide 100 years of energy independence with the country’s existing 92,000 tons of spent fuel.
Source: https://www.techspot.com/news/110001-us-opens-cold-war-plutonium-stockpile-jump-start.html