Advancements in the research of high-temperature gas-cooled reactor fuel via additive manufacturing techniques

Recent advances in high-temperature gas-cooled reactor fuel research have captured the global spotlight, as modern operating contexts demand innovative responses to unprecedented challenges. This article offers an overview of contemporary directions in high-temperature gas-cooled reactor fuel design worldwide, pinpointing the shared operational demands and development patterns characteristic of these advanced fuels. It presents an innovative advanced fuel design, which incorporates multi-layer coated particles to boost safety and employs high-temperature-resistant silicon carbide (SiC) ceramics, seamlessly integrated with cutting-edge additive manufacturing (AM) techniques. This design heralds a shift toward modular fuel element solutions that are easily scalable, supporting the diverse array of advanced reactors and marking a significant step forward in the quest for high-temperature gas-cooled reactor fuel technologies.