SMRTR Science & EngineeringAug 20, 2026Interesting Engineering

US: New laser tool clears nuclear plant ice buildup in minutes from 40 feet deep

SMRTR summary

Engineers at the University of South Florida spent four years developing a laser-based tool that separates frozen ice baskets inside nuclear power plants. The device fits into tight spaces and cuts through ice sheets more than 40 feet deep in minutes, reducing manual labor during safety inspections. Successfully tested at two Tennessee Valley Authority sites, the technology could also benefit similar nuclear facilities in Japan and Finland.

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