US firm advances next-gen nuclear fuel, prepares to begin critical reactor testing

Lightbridge Corporation has successfully prepared its advanced nuclear fuel samples for critical testing at Idaho National Laboratory's Advanced Test Reactor, marking a key milestone toward regulatory approval. The company's innovative fuel uses an enriched uranium-zirconium metallic alloy instead of traditional ceramic materials, potentially offering better heat transfer and enhanced safety margins for both existing reactors and next-generation small modular reactors.